# Copy backup files to a storage location

Copying backup files to a storage location ensures that the backup files are available if the data on the server on which they were created is lost.

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When you create backup files, you can save the files on the Management Server or on your local workstation. We recommend copying the backup files to a safe location, such as removable media or another host, for long-term storage.

When you save backup files on the Management Server, the backup files are saved in the <installation directory>/backups/ directory of the Management Server on which they were created.

Note: If you installed the Management Server in the C:\Program Files\Forcepoint\SMC directory in Windows, some program data might be stored in the C:\ProgramData\Forcepoint\SMC directory.

On the SMC Appliance, backup files can be automatically stored in a remote location through a CIFS share.

## Steps

On the Management Server on which the backup files were created or on your local workstation, copy the backup files to a safe storage location.
Note: Handle the backup files securely. They contain all configuration information for the system.