# Personal data backup checklist

Set up a recoverable backup of personal photos and documents, check what is included and practise restoring a file before you need it.

## Choose what to protect

- [ ] List the devices holding important personal files
- [ ] Identify photo folders that are not backed up
- [ ] Identify documents stored only on one device
- [ ] Check whether cloud files are synced or independently backed up
- [ ] Check the space needed for the selected files
- [ ] Choose a backup destination separate from the original device

## Create the backup

- [ ] Check the backup service or drive has enough free space
- [ ] Enable account protection for an online backup service
- [ ] Encrypt a portable backup drive containing sensitive files
- [ ] Store recovery information in a secure separate place
- [ ] Run the first backup to completion
- [ ] Check the completion report for skipped files or errors

## Test and maintain it

- [ ] Restore one sample file to a different folder
- [ ] Open the restored file to check it is usable
- [ ] Check how to recover an older file version
- [ ] Schedule automatic backups where supported
- [ ] Disconnect an offline backup drive after use
- [ ] Set a reminder to review backup status regularly