How to back up a Windows PC (three ways)
Three ways to back up a Windows PC: Windows Backup to the cloud, File History to an external drive, or a simple copy to a USB drive. Steps for each.
Backups, set up and checked
A backup is a second copy of your files, kept somewhere other than your computer. WeldonPC sets up cloud backup and external-drive backup, schedules them to run automatically, and tests that your files can actually be restored. Every plan includes cloud backup: 50, 100 or 250 GB.
What WeldonPC does
- Cloud backup setup
- External drive backup
- Automated scheduling
- Recovery testing
What your plan covers
Every plan includes cloud backup for the covered computer. In a remote session, within your included hours, a WeldonPC technician can set the backup up, choose what gets backed up, schedule it to run automatically and restore a test file to show that it works.
A second copy at home
WeldonPC also sets up backups to an external drive. Keeping one copy in the cloud and one on a drive is safer than either alone; our guide explains the 3-2-1 backup rule. The drive itself is a part, and parts aren't included in a plan.
If you have already lost files
Stop using the computer and call 888-7-WELDON, Monday to Friday, 12 PM to 8 PM Eastern time. If the drive has failed, see data recovery.
Try it yourself first.
Free guides from the Tech Support Bundle team.
The 3-2-1 backup rule, explained simply
The 3-2-1 backup rule: keep 3 copies of important files, on 2 different kinds of storage, with 1 copy somewhere else. What that looks like at home.
Questions.
How much cloud backup comes with my plan?
50 GB on Home, 100 GB on Business and 250 GB on Ultimate, for the covered computer.
Can I get cloud backup without a plan?
Yes. The Cloud Backup add-on is $9.95 a month per computer, with no plan required. It is on the plans page.
What is recovery testing?
It means restoring a file from the backup to prove the backup works. A backup you have never tested is only a hope.
Rather have us do it?
Every plan includes remote help from a WeldonPC technician. Call 888-7-WELDON, Mon–Fri 12–8 PM ET.