I have a magnetic tape device, but it isn't connected to a SCSI controller or anIDEcontroller. How can I access it?
A1:
Although Linux does include drivers for many older tape devices, there are so many of themand they behave in so many different waysthat use of such devices in Linux is best left to the pros. Consider upgrading to an industry-standard SCSI or IDE streamer instead; the newer drives are much more reliable, and using them with Linux and the tar command is relatively easy.
Q2:
Can I back up my entire system, rather than just my data files, using tar?
A2:
Yes, you can back up every directory tree but /proc using the tar command. Restoring from a systemwide backup of this sort is a matter of booting restore, using parted and mount (both of which you've learned about) to create and mount a new file system, and then streaming the data back on to the hard drive with tar. Beware, howeverif you have experienced hacking activity, any compromised files might also be restored in such an operation. It is usually therefore a better idea to back up data files only.
Q3:
I have experienced file system corruption several times, but each time, rescue and e2fsck are able to repair the problem. Why should I buy a new hard drive?
A3:
Because repeated bouts of file system corruption indicate that your hard drive is losing data that has been stored there. Aside from the fact that some of your data is disappearing forever, it is very likely that a hard drive that is losing data will fail completely in short order. Try running the smartctl test described earlier to be sure.
