Backing up your computer seems straightforward until you actually lose important files. A reliable backup system should provide more than one copy of important information so that one damaged drive or compromised account does not destroy everything.
Follow the 3-2-1 Backup Rule
The basic 3-2-1 approach means keeping three copies of important information, using two different types of storage, with one copy stored separately from your main computer.
An external hard drive is one of the simplest ways to create a local backup. Connect the drive and use Windows backup features or Time Machine on a Mac.
Keep Important Files in the Cloud
A cloud copy gives you another layer of protection if your computer or external drive is damaged.
Instead of necessarily backing up your entire computer, start with the information that would be difficult to replace, such as documents, important photographs and work files.
Remember to Update Your Backup
A backup that has not been updated is not very useful when you lose a recent file. Reconnect an external drive regularly if you do not leave it connected all the time.
Set yourself a reminder to perform backups every few weeks or whenever you create a large amount of important new information.
Test Your Backups
Do not assume a backup works simply because the computer says it completed successfully. Occasionally open the backup and confirm that important files can actually be restored.
The goal is to have a backup system that you can maintain consistently rather than one that looks perfect but is forgotten after the first week.
