Initially, a table file is built which lists at least filesystems to be backed up. It also may list the type of backup techniques to be used for a specific filesystem, the filesystem's logical location, and the number of copies to be made. The table file is checked for syntax and is then available for other routines. An automated script may be used for building the table, and then it may be manually edited if necessary. Other scripts may be invoked for backing up the filesystems listed in the script by accessing the table file.