Backup, Sync and Restore
What this concept is
A backup is a recoverable copy or version of data. Synchronization makes locations agree and may propagate mistakes. Version history may provide recovery, but retention and access rules vary. A restore test checks whether a particular copy can actually reconstruct the intended artifact.
Why it matters here
A folder named “backup” is only a claim until you can recover from it. This beginner drill tests logical restoration with disposable data; it does not establish resilience to losing the device.
Concrete example
Create working/plan.txt containing three lines: Topic: files, Minutes: 25, Next: explain saving. Make a separate backup/plan.txt copy. Change the working version to an intentionally wrong value. Restore the backup into a third folder, restored, without overwriting the working copy. Open it and compare every line with the expected version.
All three folders may be on one device for this drill. State explicitly that device loss could destroy them together.
Common confusion / misconception
A synchronized deletion may appear on every connected device. A successful small-file restore says nothing about omitted files or credentials needed for a real service. A same-device copy is not an independent disaster-recovery location.
How to use it
Choose what must be recoverable, from which version, and against which failure. Identify who can access the backup and how restoration works. Test on disposable copies. Keep private material out of screenshots. For important work, plan a separate failure location and periodically inspect provider retention rules.
Check yourself
Does copying a file and never reopening it prove recovery? No. Does this local drill prove recovery after a stolen laptop? No; the tested failure is a wrong edit to one working copy.
Mini drill or application
Repeat with a new practice file and a backup intentionally missing its final line. The restore operation may succeed but content validation must fail. Preserve both outcomes and explain the difference.
Read this only if stuck
Read NCSC's backup and restore guidance. Use the sections needed for your storage method; no cloud subscription is required for the drill.