> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://kindlemodding.gitbook.io/kindlemodding/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://kindlemodding.gitbook.io/kindlemodding/contingency-plan/back-up-your-kindles-system-files-8th-gen-or-older.md).

# Back up your Kindle's system files (8th gen or older)

This page will guide you through on how to back up your Kindle's system partitions, in case of a brick so that you can restore it to a functional state using a serial connection.

This guide will only apply to older devices such as the PW2, PW3, KT2, KT3, KV, KOA as newer devices such as the PW4/KT4 has a different partition layout, alongside secure boot, thus no way to restore it even if you have managed to back up the entire system.

## Prerequisites:

* Jailbroken Kindle with KUAL installed.
* [kterm](https://github.com/bfabiszewski/kterm), a terminal emulator for your Kindle.
* knc1's [Kindle Backup script](https://www.mobileread.com/forums/showthread.php?t=289690).

## How to use:

1. First, install `kterm` to `extensions` on your Kindle. This will allow `kterm` to be launched from KUAL. (Drag and drop the kterm folder to extensions!)
2. Unarchive `backup-0.3.tar.gz`, Plug in your Kindle (with USBNetwork turned off, if you don't know what this is feel free to ignore.) and then copy both `esys` and `unjail` folders to the root of your Kindle's visible storage (it's where the `documents` folder is).
3. Eject your Kindle, then go to `KUAL` > `kterm`.
4. Do the following:

   1. `cd /mnt/us/unjail`
   2. `ls` to make sure that the script is there.
   3. Once you've verified the script is there, `./mkbackup.sh`.
   4. This will take a few minutes. Sit back, relax, and have a cup of tea, or beer if that's more your thing.
   5. Once it's done, it'll create a folder called `backups` in the visible storage of Kindle (`/mnt/us/backups`) in which you can find your backup.
   6. Exit `kterm` by doing `exit`, then plug your Kindle back in.
   7. Copy the contents inside of `backups` to a safe place.

## That's it, you've backed up the important system files! In case your Kindle ever bricks itself (which sometimes can happen), follow [this guide](/kindlemodding/contingency-plan/wip-unbrick-a-kindle-with-your-system-backup-using-serial-8th-gen-or-older.md).