Backup

A backup is a second copy of important files stored separately from your computer. This could be on the internet (cloud) or external storage (memory stick or external hard drive). A backup can be used to recover accidentally deleted files or to recover files if your computer develops a serious fault or is infected with a virus.

There are several different types of backup:

• Cloud − automatic backup to the internet.
• Automatic local − automatic backup to a device plugged into the computer.
• Manual local − manually copy files to a device plugged into the computer.

Cloud backup

In Windows 11, Microsoft pushes cloud backup (OneDrive) as an automatic backup system. If you subscribe to Microsoft 365 (Office), you get 1TB cloud storage as part of the package. If not, you only get 5GB cloud storage for free. This is likely to fill up quickly, requiring payment to get more space. There are other companies that offer cloud backup, for a cost.

Automatic local

Windows 11 still has backup programs originally introduced in Windows 7. These are File History and Back up and Restore (Windows 7).

File History backs up the libraries to a hard drive or memory stick plugged in to the computer. This is usually Documents, Pictures, Music, Videos and Desktop (you can add other folders to libraries to include them in the backup). The backup runs every hour, only copies files that have changed (after the initial backup of everything), and keeps a copy of old versions of changed files.

Backup and restore (Windows 7) backups up everything (files and programs) to an external hard drive plugged in to the computer. This can be set to run on a schedule and can include a system image. This backup method uses a lot more space than File History.

There are other programs that provide the same services, some free, some pay.

These backup methods may be vulnerable to viruses, as the backup device needs to stay plugged in to the computer. These backups only run when the computer is on.

Manual local

Here you set your own schedule (I would suggest monthly). You only plug in the backup device when you are running the backup, meaning less of a risk from viruses. Keep the backup device in a safe location in between backups.

Backup and restore (Windows 7) can be set up to be run manually (without the schedule). This allows you to plug in a backup device, run the backup, then (safely) remove the backup device and keep it somewhere safe.

You can also manually copy important files and folders on to a memory stick or hard drive. Plug in your external device and manually copy the important files and folders. Once the backup has finished, unplug (safely remove) the backup device and keep it somewhere safe.