Decide what must survive
List important documents, photographs and any application data that needs a special export. Use a supported backup method and check what it includes. Files visible in a cloud folder may not all be stored locally, so confirm the source rather than assuming every icon represents a complete file.
Keep copies meaningfully separate
An always-connected drive can be exposed to some of the same accidents or malicious changes as the computer. Use an appropriate routine for disconnecting and storing it safely, and consider an additional independent copy for irreplaceable material. Protect sensitive backups with supported encryption and keep recovery information safe.
Restore before trusting
Recover a sample file to a different folder and open it. Check older versions if that is part of the backup method. Record the date and result. Safely eject the drive as required and do not disconnect it during an active write.
