Backups & Storage
Backup plan builder
Build a plain-English backup plan with local, offsite, and restore-check coverage.
Use this when backups failed, you added a new computer, or you are not sure whether one drive or NAS is enough.
High priority
Add the missing backup layer before tuning schedules.
Check first
- List what cannot be replaced: photos, documents, projects, passwords, and device exports.
- Check the newest successful local backup timestamp.
- Check whether one copy survives loss of the home.
Likely wrong
- A local copy exists for faster recovery.
- Loss of the home could still take every copy.
- Backups are unproven until a restore or spot check succeeds.
Safe to try
- Use an external drive or NAS for local recovery.
- Use reputable cloud or another offsite destination for disaster coverage.
- Schedule a monthly restore spot check and write down what was tested.
When to stop
- Stop before deleting old backup sets manually.
- Stop if a drive clicks, disconnects, or asks to format when it contains the only copy.
What should I check first?
- List the devices and data you cannot replace.
- Check the most recent successful backup time.
- Confirm whether you have at least one copy away from the home.
What is likely wrong?
- Only one backup destination exists.
- The backup has not been tested with a restore or spot check.
- The destination is full, offline, or not reachable overnight.
What is safe to try?
- Add a local external drive or NAS destination for quick recovery.
- Add an offsite/cloud copy for loss of the home.
- Schedule a monthly restore check.
When should I stop?
- A source or backup drive shows failure signs.
- Backup software reports corruption and this is the only copy.
- You are about to delete old backup sets manually.