How to Back Up Your Files and Photos Safely

Simple ways to protect your data from loss, damage, or accidents

Backing up your files means making a copy of your important documents, photos, and videos so you don’t lose them if your device crashes, gets stolen, or stops working. This guide will show you easy ways to back up your data—whether you prefer USB drives, cloud storage, or external hard drives.

🧳 1. What Should You Back Up?

Start by choosing the files that matter most:

• Family photos and videos

• Important documents (taxes, IDs, contracts)

• Business records or farm data

• Email attachments or scanned paperwork

Tip: Create a folder called “Backup” and copy everything you want to protect into it.

💾 2. Use a USB Drive or External Hard Drive

This is a simple, offline way to back up your files.

• Plug the drive into your computer’s USB port

• Open your “Backup” folder and drag it onto the drive

• Eject the drive safely when done

Tip: Label your drive and store it in a safe, dry place.

☁️ 3. Use Cloud Storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud)

Cloud storage saves your files online so you can access them from any device.

• Create a free account with Google, Microsoft, or Apple

• Upload your files manually or turn on automatic backup

• Make sure your account is protected with a strong password

Tip: Cloud backups are great for photos and documents you want to access from your phone or tablet.

🔁 4. Set a Backup Schedule

Backing up once isn’t enough—make it a habit.

• Weekly: Back up new photos and documents

• Monthly: Review your backup folder and update your cloud or USB drive

• Yearly: Archive old files and clean up your storage

Tip: Set a calendar reminder or ask us to help automate your backups.

🧠 5. Know When to Ask for Help

If you’re not sure how to back up your files—or you’re worried something is missing—we’re here to help.

• We offer personalized backup plans for seniors, farms, and small businesses

• We can help recover lost files and set up automatic backups

• First session is free!

📞 Need Help?

We offer remote and in-person tech support for seniors, farms, and small businesses in Central Alberta—including data backup, recovery, and cloud setup.

• Visit: www.fieldandruraltechservices.online

• Email: connect@fieldandruraltechservices.online

• Call: 587-306-3444

• First session is free!