Understanding Cloud Backup and How It Protects Your Files

What is Cloud Backup?

Cloud backup stores copies of your files on secure servers, protecting them if something happens to your computer.

How OneDrive Protects You

Automatic Sync

When you save to OneDrive:

• File saves to your computer
• Automatically copies to Microsoft's servers
• Available from any device
• Protected if your computer fails

Version History

OneDrive keeps previous versions:

• See changes over time
• Restore older versions
• Recover from mistakes

Deleted File Recovery

Accidentally deleted files:

• Go to OneDrive Recycle Bin
• Recover within 93 days

What's Protected

OneDrive Files

Files in your OneDrive folder are automatically backed up.

Desktop, Documents, Pictures

You can enable backup for these folders:

• Click OneDrive icon in system tray
• Settings > Backup > Manage backup
• Choose folders to protect
• Click Start backup

SharePoint/Teams Files

Team files in SharePoint are also protected.

What's NOT Protected

Local Files Only

Files saved only on your computer (not in OneDrive):

• Not automatically backed up
• Lost if computer fails
• Move to OneDrive for protection

External Drives

USB drives are not backed up:

• Easy to lose or damage
• No automatic recovery
• Copy important files to OneDrive

How IT Protects Your Data

Additional Backups

IT maintains:

• Regular backups of company data
• Multiple copies in different locations
• Ability to recover from specific dates

Disaster Recovery

Protection against:

• Hardware failure
• Ransomware
• Accidental deletion
• Natural disasters

Best Practices

Save to Cloud

• Use OneDrive for all work files
• Enable Desktop/Documents backup
• Don't save only locally

Check Sync Status

Look at OneDrive icon:

• ✓ Green tick = synced
• 🔄 Arrows = syncing
• ⚠️ Warning = issue (check it)

Don't Rely on One Copy

Even with cloud backup:

• Very critical files might need additional copies
• Consider the importance of the file
• Discuss with IT for business-critical data

What If Something Goes Wrong?

Computer Fails

• Get a new computer
• Sign into OneDrive
• Your files are all there

Accidental Delete

• Check OneDrive Recycle Bin
• Recover deleted files
• Contact IT if needed

Ransomware Attack

• IT can restore from backup
• Files recovered from before attack
• Minimal data loss

Need Help?

For backup questions, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.