Your Files Are Synced to the Cloud. Does That Mean They're Backed Up?

Cloud synchronization makes files available across devices, but it is not automatically a complete backup strategy. Changes and deletions may propagate to every synchronized location.

## What sync does Synchronization keeps selected files consistent across connected devices and a cloud service. Editing a file on one device may update it elsewhere. Deleting a synchronized file may also remove it from other synchronized locations.

## What a backup does A backup preserves a recoverable copy of information so you can restore it after deletion, corruption or device failure. Some cloud services offer version history and deleted-file recovery, but retention periods and restrictions vary. Check the specific service rather than assuming recovery lasts forever.

## Keep an independent copy Identify files you cannot afford to lose. Maintain a working copy and at least one separate backup protected from automatic changes to the working files. An external drive, appropriately configured backup service or both may fit. Use equipment you already own if it is reliable and has sufficient capacity.

## Protect against shared failures A permanently connected backup may be affected by some of the same events as the original files. Depending on your needs, keep a safely disconnected drive or another independently protected copy. Follow the backup software's instructions before disconnecting a drive.

## Test restoration Periodically restore a noncritical file and check that it opens and contains the expected information. A backup you have never tested may not provide the recovery you expect.

The bottom line: sync is convenient, but independent, tested backups provide another recovery path when synchronized files are deleted or damaged.

## Sources and further reading CISA: Back Up Business Data — https://www.cisa.gov/secure-our-world/back-up-business-data Microsoft Support: Restore deleted files or folders in OneDrive — https://support.microsoft.com/onedrive