How to Set Up File Backups with Cinnamon Desktop on Linux Mint

Backing up your files is crucial to prevent data loss due to system failures, accidental deletions, or cyber threats. If you use Linux Mint with the Cinnamon desktop, you have various tools and methods available to set up automatic and manual backups easily.

In this guide, we will cover different ways to back up your files, including using Timeshift, Déjà Dup (Backup Tool), Rsync, and cloud storage solutions. We will also discuss best practices for keeping your data safe.

Why Backups Are Important

Before we get into the setup process, let’s quickly review why backups are essential:

• Protection Against Data Loss: Hardware failures, malware, or accidental deletions can result in lost files.
• Easier System Recovery: A backup allows you to restore files and settings with minimal effort.
• Convenience: Having an automated backup system ensures you always have the latest version of your important files.

Now, let’s explore how to set up file backups on Cinnamon Desktop in Linux Mint.

1. Using Timeshift for System Backups

Timeshift is a built-in snapshot tool in Linux Mint that lets you restore your system if something goes wrong. However, Timeshift mainly backs up system files, not personal files like documents, photos, and videos.

Installing Timeshift (If Not Installed)

Timeshift usually comes pre-installed on Linux Mint, but if it’s missing, install it with:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install timeshift

Setting Up Timeshift

1. Launch Timeshift from the application menu.
2. Choose a backup type:
   • RSYNC (Recommended): Creates snapshots efficiently.
   • BTRFS: Used for Btrfs file systems.
3. Select a destination drive for your backups.
4. Configure how often you want snapshots to be taken (daily, weekly, monthly).
5. Click Create to manually take your first snapshot.

Restoring from a Timeshift Snapshot

1. Open Timeshift.
2. Select a snapshot from the list.
3. Click Restore and follow the on-screen instructions.

Note: Timeshift does not back up personal files. For personal data, use Déjà Dup or Rsync.

2. Using Déjà Dup for Personal File Backups

Déjà Dup (Backup Tool) is a simple graphical backup solution that allows you to back up personal files to external drives, network locations, or cloud services.

Installing Déjà Dup

If it’s not already installed, run:

sudo apt install deja-dup

Configuring Déjà Dup

1. Open Backup (Déjà Dup) from the application menu.
2. Click Folders to Save and select directories you want to back up (e.g., Documents, Pictures, Downloads).
3. Click Folders to Ignore to exclude unnecessary files.
4. Choose a backup location:
   • Local storage (External HDD, USB drive)
   • Network storage (NAS, FTP, SSH)
   • Cloud services (Google Drive, Nextcloud)
5. Set an automatic backup schedule (daily, weekly, etc.).
6. Click Back Up Now to start your first backup.

Restoring Files with Déjà Dup

1. Open Backup (Déjà Dup).
2. Click Restore and select the backup location.
3. Follow the on-screen steps to recover your files.

3. Using Rsync for Advanced Backups

For those who prefer command-line tools, Rsync is a powerful utility for backing up files efficiently. It only copies changed files, saving both time and disk space.

Installing Rsync

Rsync is usually pre-installed. To check, run:

rsync --version

If it’s not installed, use:

sudo apt install rsync

Creating a Backup with Rsync

To back up your Home folder to an external drive (/mnt/backup), run:

rsync -av --progress ~/ /mnt/backup/

Explanation of options:

• -a (archive mode): Preserves file permissions, timestamps, and symbolic links.
• -v (verbose): Displays backup progress.
• --progress: Shows detailed progress information.

Automating Rsync with Cron

To run Rsync backups automatically, set up a cron job:

1. Open the crontab editor:

   crontab -e
   

2. Add the following line to run Rsync every day at midnight:

   0 0 * * * rsync -a ~/ /mnt/backup/
   

3. Save and exit.

This will ensure your files are backed up daily.

4. Cloud Backup Solutions

If you prefer cloud backups, consider the following options:

Google Drive with rclone

Rclone allows you to sync files with cloud storage like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive.

Installing rclone

sudo apt install rclone

Configuring Google Drive Backup

1. Run rclone config and follow the prompts to set up your Google Drive.

2. Once configured, sync your files with:

   rclone sync ~/Documents remote:Backup/Documents
   

This keeps your Documents folder backed up in the cloud.

5. Best Practices for Backups

To ensure your backups are reliable, follow these best practices:

✅ Use Multiple Backup Methods – Combine Timeshift, Déjà Dup, and Rsync for a full backup strategy.
✅ Store Backups on an External Drive – Keep at least one copy outside your main disk.
✅ Encrypt Your Backups – Use tools like GnuPG (GPG) or VeraCrypt to protect sensitive data.
✅ Test Your Backups Regularly – Ensure you can restore files successfully.
✅ Use Cloud Storage as a Redundant Option – Services like Google Drive, Nextcloud, or Dropbox provide off-site protection.

Final Thoughts

Setting up backups in Linux Mint Cinnamon is straightforward and ensures that your files and system remain safe from unexpected failures. Timeshift is great for system backups, Déjà Dup is excellent for personal files, Rsync provides flexibility for advanced users, and cloud storage adds extra protection.

By following this guide, you can create a robust backup strategy that fits your needs and keeps your data secure.

Do you have a preferred backup method? Let me know in the comments! 🚀