In the event of a computer crash or replacement, it is important to have a copy of necessary computer files available for restoration. To safeguard the Lotus Notes client, there are at least six files that are important to have copies retained in a separate location:

• The first, and most important, is your User.id file. This file should be located in the Lotus/Notes/Data folder with the file extension of .id. This file will either be named User.id or contain the shortname.id. (i.e., jsmith2.id).
• Your Notes.ini file has individualized settings that control how Notes starts on your computer.
• The Desktop.ndk file holds desktop information.
• The User.dic file holds the correct spelling of specialized words not in the standard Notes dictionary.
• The file Names.nsf contains personal address book information.
• Your Bookmarks.nsf file contains shortcuts or favorites for databases or views you access frequently.

Alternatively, you could just backup your entire lotus/notes/data directory to be sure that you have all of the files that are listed above. Copy the files to a CD or floppy and label it, including the current date. Keep it somewhere safe, where you will remember it if you ever need to reinstall Lotus Notes. Remember to update the files whenever you make a change, such as your password.



Note: If you have created any archive files, those will need to be copied, too, as they only exist on the local machine.



Your actual mail file is backed up nightly, as it resides on the Notes server. The files listed above reside on your local computer, and are not backed up.