Backing Up Your Snagit Folders
A Guide for Protecting Your Work
As a QA professional with five years of experience using Snagit, I've learned the importance of backing up my work. Snagit, a powerful screen capture tool, is integral to documenting and sharing information in a visual format. However, like any digital asset, these files can be lost due to hardware failure, accidental deletion, or software issues. To prevent such losses, it?s crucial to regularly back up your Snagit folders. Here's a guide on how to do it effectively.
Understanding Snagit Files
Before diving into the backup process, it?s important to understand how Snagit stores its files. Snagit typically saves captures in the ?AutoSave Captures? folder by default. However, if you save your captures on remote drives or change the default location, you might need to track them down.
File Types and Locations
- AutoSave Captures Folder: This is the default location where Snagit saves your screen captures. You can find this folder in your Snagit directory.
- .snagprog Files: Snagit uses the .snagprog extension for files that are saved outside the ?AutoSave Captures? folder. These are usually saved on remote drives or specified locations.
Step-by-Step Backup Process
Locate Your Files
AutoSave Captures: Search for this folder in your Snagit directory. The path usually follows a standard format, such as C:Users[YourUsername]DocumentsSnagitAutoSave Captures.
.snagprog Files: To find files with the .snagprog extension, use your operating system's search function and look for *.snagprog. This will show all Snagit files saved outside the AutoSave folder.
Choose a Backup Method
Select an appropriate backup method. You can use external hard drives, cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox, or dedicated backup software.
Copy Your Files
Manual Copy: If using an external drive, simply copy the AutoSave Captures folder and any .snagprog files you find onto the drive.
Cloud Storage: Upload your files or folders directly to your chosen cloud service.
Backup Software: Set up the software to recognize your Snagit folders and .snagprog files as part of its regular backup routine.
Regularly Update Your Backup
Make a schedule to regularly update your backup. This ensures that your latest work is always protected.
Best Practices
- Consistency: Regular backups are key. Set reminders or schedule automatic backups if possible.
- Multiple Backups: Don?t rely on a single backup method. Use a combination of physical drives and cloud storage for added security.
- Test Your Backups: Periodically check your backups to ensure that files are intact and recoverable.
- Stay Updated: Keep your Snagit software updated to the latest version for the best performance and security.
Backing up your Snagit folders might seem like a mundane task, but it?s essential for safeguarding your work. By following these steps and best practices, you can ensure that your valuable screen captures and annotations are protected against loss. Happy capturing and stay backed up!