Yes you read it right.... I didn't believe it myself until I downloaded and installed this programme. It logs into SL with a minimal client, allows you to text chat to friends while it backsup your inventory onto your HD. You can restore from the backups, should something go wrong with SL database.... and even upload some items to other OpenSim platforms.
http://www.secondinventory.com
BTW, I don't work for, or gain commissions etc from the makers of this software, just letting the SL comminity know of a great product.