Create a recoverable copy and open a restored sample.
Why it matters: A “backup complete” message is more useful when you have verified the restored file.
Written guidance reviewed: September 19, 2026 · Sources and equipment assumptions are below.
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Understand the job before starting
Backup creates a copy. Restore proves you can retrieve a usable copy.
A common mistake to avoid
A completion message alone does not test whether a restored file opens.
Words used in this guide
Backup
A recoverable copy of data made for loss or damage. Read the example
Use what you already have. Check each item when it is ready.
Before you begin
Do not overwrite your only good file during a restore test. Keep sensitive files and recovery keys protected.
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Do it with me
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STEP 1 OF 5
Choose what must be recoverable
Start here: List what needs to be recoverable.
Example: List what needs to be recoverable. Follow the written step.
Read-aloud is available in supported browsers; the written steps always remain available.
List important documents and photos, including any folders outside the usual Documents directory.
Estimate their size and check destination capacity.
Do not assume a photo thumbnail means the full original has been saved locally or backed up.
Before moving to the next step
Check this specific result: The needed folders and available storage are identified.
If that result is not true yet, leave the box unchecked. Write what is missing in your notes; use the official instructions below when the equipment or situation differs.
STEP 1 OF 5
Choose what must be recoverable
Start here: List what needs to be recoverable.
Example: List what needs to be recoverable. Follow the written step.
List important documents and photos, including any folders outside the usual Documents directory.
Estimate their size and check destination capacity.
Do not assume a photo thumbnail means the full original has been saved locally or backed up.
Before moving to the next step
Check this specific result: The needed folders and available storage are identified.
If that result is not true yet, leave the box unchecked. Write what is missing in your notes; use the official instructions below when the equipment or situation differs.
STEP 2 OF 5
Understand the copy method
Start here: Check which losses this method covers.
Example: Check which losses this method covers. Follow the written step.
Read whether the tool makes independent backups or simply synchronizes changes.
Check retention, deletion behavior, encryption, and account access.
Decide how you would recover after losing the computer as well as after accidentally editing one document.
Before moving to the next step
Check this specific result: I know what loss scenarios this method covers.
If that result is not true yet, leave the box unchecked. Write what is missing in your notes; use the official instructions below when the equipment or situation differs.
STEP 3 OF 5
Run the backup and check completion
Start here: Run the backup and review skipped files.
Example: Run the backup and review skipped files. Follow the written step.
Connect the approved destination or open the genuine backup app.
Select the intended folders and run the copy.
Wait for completion and review errors or skipped files.
A powered-on drive or open app alone does not prove a backup ran.
Before moving to the next step
Check this specific result: The job completed and any skipped files were addressed.
If that result is not true yet, leave the box unchecked. Write what is missing in your notes; use the official instructions below when the equipment or situation differs.
STEP 4 OF 5
Restore a harmless sample
Start here: Restore a harmless sample without replacing.
Example: Restore a harmless sample without replacing. Follow the written step.
Choose a non-sensitive file and use the documented restore command to a new folder.
Do not replace the original.
Open the restored file and check meaningful content, not just its filename.
Compare its date or contents with the version you intended to save.
Before moving to the next step
Check this specific result: A restored sample opens and contains the expected content.
If that result is not true yet, leave the box unchecked. Write what is missing in your notes; use the official instructions below when the equipment or situation differs.
STEP 5 OF 5
Keep the backup usable
Start here: Schedule backup and restore checks.
Example: Schedule backup and restore checks. Follow the written step.
Record the completion date without recording secrets.
Schedule repeat backups and occasional restore checks.
Protect or disconnect removable backup media according to your plan and verify that recovery credentials are available separately from a failed device.
Before moving to the next step
Check this specific result: The next backup and restore check are planned.
If that result is not true yet, leave the box unchecked. Write what is missing in your notes; use the official instructions below when the equipment or situation differs.
Pictures for this guide
Picture 1 of 5 · Choose what must be recoverable
Back up files and test a restore, step 1: Important folders / originals and Enough destination space. List what needs to be recoverable. Diagram is generic; follow the written directions and your own equipment instructions.
For: Choose what must be recoverable
Illustrations show examples of the actions above. Follow your equipment’s instructions.
Notes about these pictures
List important documents and photos, including any folders outside the usual Documents directory. Estimate their size and check destination capacity. Do not assume a photo thumbnail means the full original has been saved locally or backed up.
Do not overwrite your only good file during a restore test. Keep sensitive files and recovery keys protected.
Was this step clear?
Flag “Choose what must be recoverable” for review. We save the guide and step identifiers with your account to limit duplicates, not your private notes.
Link details checked 2026-10-03. Video availability and equipment menus can change.
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How to use the video with this guide
Read “Before you begin” first. Watch the relevant part, pause, then return to the written step and its completion check. Use captions and playback speed if they help. A demonstration may cover only part of the task or show different equipment.
Your model’s instructions and current official guidance take priority. For urgent problems, follow the stop instructions without waiting to watch a video.
For this guide, the final result is: The next backup and restore check are planned.
A concrete way to approach this task
Choose one unimportant test file, back it up, then restore it to a separate location and open it. Keep the original while testing.
What if I cannot complete a step?
A message saying backup completed is different from a successful restore. If the test file will not open, record the error and check the backup service instructions.
Identify the exact step: “Choose what must be recoverable.” Record what you tried, what happened, and which item or model you used. Ask for help with that specific problem rather than repeating an unsafe or unsuccessful action.
Do not overwrite your only good file during a restore test. Keep sensitive files and recovery keys protected.
Connect this skill to everyday life
Choose one important account and verify its recovery options through the genuine service. Organize where your recovery information is stored securely.
A familiar logo or display name does not verify a sender. Account recovery codes and normal passwords have different purposes.
