To back up the OS/App section of my servers (the / section) I use fsarchiver to image it every week. For data backups I have a simple file server that is NOT networked, or connected to the net. 4 HDs, simple script that copies everything I put onto the 1st drive to the other 3. All 4 are 6tb harddrives (not SSDs) since I want reliability, not speed. A simple old 1tb HD used as a 'sneakernet' helps transfer all the files I have though a USB3 to USB3 connections. (I constantly get 50mbps transfers) I also have two 6tb HD that I update monthly and put into the safe-deposit box. 6 month updates go to a friends' house in Tennessee (5 hours away). Simple redundancy, and linux has worked for a number of years, for both home, and office. Like you, I don't like proprietary solutions, and closed source software. having the file server off the net almost eliminates the threat of being cracked into, and I also keep it unplugged to protect it from lightning strikes and power surges.

I have two Model Ms. Actually one is an Unicomp Model M replicate, the other is an actual Model M, my (ex) GF gave me about two years ago. Her's is actually from one of her first IBMs (around mid-80s.) It still works as good as any. Why do I use MMs? Quality. Unlike many, many people and the entire culture. I don't see any reason to throw away something when a new model comes out after 3 months. With features barely more advanced. If it works and does what you want, why throw it away and pay another $500, 1000, or more for it? Just think of what else you could put that $500 into? Car, rent, utilities, or even a fine dinner (maybe :). Keyboards are the link to my livelihood. A programmer, writer, web writer and the like I need a reliable and sturdy keyboard. My GFs is 33 years old and I still use it. For my other systems, I have a Unicomp that feels almost as good as this keyboard. eBay has MMs for around $50 and if you can get the same quality from a used one and it last 5, 10, 15 or in this case 33 then you're getting your money's worth and it's actually cheaper in the long run. I use EMACS/Org-mode for 99% of my writing as well. Which goes to show that you don't need the latest greatest to do your work or pay huge fees for something. I'd rather put those savings into something really something nice. Think of it...