Backing up your computer is one of the most important things you can do to protect your files and data. Having a recent backup can save you from catastrophe if your computer crashes, is infected with malware, or needs repairs. In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know about backing up your computer and why it’s so critical to do before any upgrades or repairs.
Why You Need Backups
There are a few key reasons why backups are essential:
Prevent Data Loss
Backups protect you against data loss if your hard drive crashes or your computer is damaged, lost, or stolen. Without backups, recovering lost files and data may be impossible.
Safeguard Against Malware
Backups allow you to restore your system to a clean state if infected with malware like ransomware. The backup contains clean versions of your files from before the infection.
Enable System Recovery
Backups make it easy to recover your entire system to a previous known good state if something goes wrong. For example, you can revert to an earlier version before a faulty Windows update or driver installation.
Facilitate Computer Repairs
Repair technicians may need to erase drives, reinstall the OS, or replace hardware. Backups allow them to do their work without risking your data.
How Often Should You Back Up?
I recommend backing up your computer at a minimum:
- Once a week – To protect against data loss from activities during the week.
- Before major upgrades – Before substantial hardware upgrades or operating system updates.
- Before sending for repairs – So technicians can work without worrying about erasing your data.
If you frequently modify or add important files, consider backing up daily.
Choosing Backup Software
You have several options for backup software:
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Windows File History – Microsoft’s free tool that comes with Windows. Easy to use for protecting personal files.
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Third-party apps – Such as Acronis True Image or Macrium Reflect. Offer more features and customization.
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Cloud storage services – Like Google Drive or iDrive. Convenient offsite backup location.
I recommend an automatic backup utility like File History or cloud storage to automate the process. But you can also manually back up files by copying them to an external drive.
What to Back Up
At minimum, your backup should include:
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Personal files – Documents, photos, videos, music, and other media.
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Applications and settings – Installed software and their configurations.
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System image – A complete copy of the operating system, drivers, registry, and boot files. Enables full system recovery.
Prioritize backing up irreplaceable data that can’t be redownloaded or recreated.
Where to Store Backups
I suggest using multiple backup destinations:
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External HDD or SSD – Provides local onsite backup storage that is fast and affordable.
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Cloud storage – Offers offsite backup that is more protected against local disasters like fire or theft.
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Separate system – Back up to a separate PC or NAS device for another layer of protection.
Rotate through multiple drives to have previous backup versions if needed. Store at least one copy offsite or in the cloud.
How to Back Up Your Computer
Follow these steps to back up your Windows 10 or 11 PC:
1. Connect your backup drive
Plug in the external HDD, SSD, or flash drive you’ll use for the local backup copy.
2. Create system image
- Open the Start menu and search for Create a System Image.
- Choose the target backup drive and follow the steps.
This creates a full system image backup as a recovery option.
3. Back up personal files
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup and turn on Back up my files under File History.
This automatically backs up desktop, document, picture, video, and other folders in your user account.
4. Manual backups
Additionally, you can manually copy important folders or data not covered by File History to the external drive.
5. Cloud backup
For offsite cloud backup, use a service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iDrive to sync files.
Before Upgrades and Repairs
Before substantial upgrades or sending your computer for repairs, be sure to:
- Run a full system image and file backup.
- Disconnect the backup drive and keep it safe during repairs.
- Verify the backup was successful before proceeding.
This protects your data if anything goes wrong or the computer needs to be wiped.
Conclusion
Regularly backing up your computer is cheap insurance against catastrophe. Use both local and cloud backup destinations for optimal protection and redundancy. Be especially diligent about performing timely backups before system upgrades and repairs to avoid data loss. Following these backup best practices takes a bit of time but provides invaluable peace of mind.
