# Backup Commands
## Backup Mode Selection
The backup system supports different modes of operation through the `--backup-mode` flag.
```bash
pathmaster --backup-mode <mode>
```
### Available Modes
#### default
```bash
pathmaster --backup-mode default
```
- Backs up both PATH and shell configuration
- Most comprehensive backup option
- Recommended for major changes
#### path
```bash
pathmaster --backup-mode path
```
- Backs up only PATH entries
- Faster operation
- Suitable for temporary PATH changes
#### shell
```bash
pathmaster --backup-mode shell
```
- Backs up only shell configuration
- Preserves shell customizations
- Useful for shell-specific changes
#### switch
```bash
pathmaster --backup-mode switch
```
- Toggles between backup modes
- Cycles: PATH → SHELL → DEFAULT
- Quick mode switching
## Backup History
View available backups using:
```bash
pathmaster history
```
Output shows:
- Backup timestamps
- Backup types
- File locations
## Restore Operations
### Latest Backup
```bash
pathmaster restore
```
- Restores most recent backup
- Automatic mode detection
- Updates current session
### Specific Backup
```bash
pathmaster restore --timestamp 20240301120000
```
- Restores specific backup point
- Requires exact timestamp
- Full system state recovery
## Best Practices
### Regular Backups
- Create backups before major changes
- Use appropriate backup modes
- Verify backup creation
- Test restoration process
### Backup Management
- Review backup history regularly
- Clean old backups periodically
- Verify backup integrity
- Document major changes