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Data & Backup

Back up your computer before a repair

The ten-minute job that makes every repair safer. What to copy, where to put it, and what to write down before handing the machine over.

Easy30–60 min5 steps

Read before you start

If the drive clicks, the machine shuts down mid-copy or the backup stalls, stop. A failing drive pushed through a long backup often cannot be recovered afterwards.

This guide is for you if

  • You are about to hand the machine in
  • Drive is making noise
  • Windows will not start but the files matter

Step by step

Work top to bottom

0 of 5 steps done

  1. Decide what actually matters

    Documents, photos, project files and licence keys first — not the whole disk. Applications can be reinstalled; your work cannot.

  2. Copy to an external drive

    Plug in the drive and copy the folders you need. Keep it connected only while copying, then unplug it — that protects the backup from surges and ransomware.

  3. Add a cloud copy of the essentials

    Upload the most important folder to OneDrive, Google Drive or iCloud. Two copies in two places is the minimum for anything irreplaceable.

  4. Make a recovery drive

    Windows: search 'Create a recovery drive'. macOS: a Time Machine backup doubles as recovery. Either one lets you repair or reinstall without losing the lot.

  5. Write down the essentials

    Note your Microsoft or Apple account, the Wi-Fi password and any software licence keys. A repair should not cost you access as well as time.