College of Science, Cal Poly PomonaA feature called "Previous Versions" is available for Windows 2000 users (if Shadow Copy Client is installed) and Windows XP users (natively) to self-restore files they have stored on file server. "Snapshots" of previous versions of files are taken twice a day, M-F, at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. This feature is particularly useful for restoring accidental deletions of files or folders stored on the file server. Up to 64 previous versions can be stored.
To utilize this feature right-click on the folder or file you want to restore, and select "Properties." Under the tab "Previous Versions," snapshots of that folder or file are listed by date and time. If a file has not changed from current state on disk, there is no previous version. From here it is possible to view older versions, or copy entire folders into another area. Use caution with the "Restore" function as this will replace the current file or folder with the version you select. It is recommended to “copy” the file or folder you want to restore to a new location.
Here the properties window is shown with the "Previous Versions" tab selected showing previous versions of the selected file. Selecting "Copy" opens a dialogue box where the file can be copied to any selected folder. The selected "My Documents" folder now holds the copied previous version of the file..
Mac OSX users may take advantage of this feature indirectly by temporarily logging into a Windows XP machine, mounting their file share, and using “Previous Versions” to restore file. Restored file will then be seen back on Mac share of same location.
Please see your department tech or Brent Norum, x4560, for assistance with this feature.
