Self HelpBoise Computer Care

Data backup

The 3-2-1 backup plan for home and small office

The 3-2-1 backup rule explained: three copies, two types of storage, one off-site, with simple setups for Windows, Mac and small offices.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
30-60 min
Steps
7
Updated

Sounds like this?

  • No backup
  • Only one external drive
  • Small business files on one computer

Step by step

  1. 3 copies of important data: the original plus two backups.
  2. 2 different types of storage: for example an external drive plus cloud.
  3. 1 copy off-site: cloud backup or a drive kept somewhere else.
  4. Windows: use Windows Backup/OneDrive for folders, plus File History to an external drive (Control Panel › File History).
  5. Mac: Time Machine to an external drive, plus iCloud Drive for documents.
  6. Small office: add a business cloud backup that keeps versions, so you can roll back if files get encrypted or deleted.
  7. Put a calendar reminder to test a restore.

Related error codes & messages

Quick answers

When should I stop and get professional help with "The 3-2-1 backup plan for home and small office"?

Stop and get help if: You need a backup for a business server, shared drives, or many PCs. Backups report errors you can't fix. Boise Computer Care can diagnose it for a $60 fee; call 208-996-3508.

How long does this fix take and how hard is it?

Plan on 30-60 min. Difficulty: Easy.

Is it safe to try this myself?

Mostly, if you follow these precautions: Disconnect external backup drives when not backing up so ransomware can't reach them. Test restoring a file at least every few months.

Which error messages or codes does this guide cover?

File History drive disconnected, Backup failed.

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