A backup plan is useful only if it covers the files you need and provides a workable way to recover them. Begin with the data, not with the purchase of a drive or a reassuring cloud icon.

List the material that matters

Include current documents, photographs, local email archives and application data. A business database may require its own supported backup process. Record where each item lives and who can authorise access. Do not assume that protecting the Desktop also protects every project folder or application.

Decide how much recent work you could afford to lose and how quickly you need it back. These requirements help set the backup frequency and recovery arrangements. A household photo archive and a continuously used business system need different plans.

Keep genuinely independent copies

CISA describes the 3-2-1 approach as three copies, on two media types, with one offsite. Cloud synchronisation can be useful, but it should not automatically be counted as an independent, recoverable history of everything. Check the service's actual retention and restore behaviour.

For ransomware resilience, CISA also recommends offline, encrypted backups and restore testing. Decide how backup credentials and encryption keys can be accessed if the original computer is unavailable. Keep those details private and separately recoverable.

Choose capacity and retention from the amount of data, rate of change and required history. Do not erase a drive that contains the only copy of anything while setting up backup encryption. Read the backup application's supported setup process first.

Test a small recovery

Select a harmless file with recognisable content. After a backup has completed, recover a retained version to a separate location. Open it and check the content and date. Record the backup destination and the result rather than accepting a familiar filename as proof.

For important applications, test the application's own restore process in an appropriate separate environment. Schedule checks that reflect your work and repeat them after a destination, account or folder layout changes.

Keep exceptions visible

If a folder is excluded, an account cannot sign in or a restore fails, record that gap. Fixing an identified gap is more useful than continuing to describe the whole computer as backed up. Keep the previous usable copy until the new arrangement has been checked.

References: CISA's backup options and ransomware backup precautions.

For an AEPC repair assessment in East Auckland, call 027 908 8880 with your model, symptoms and backup status. Confirm the proposed work, any assessment fee and estimated timing before booking.