Tech fixes · Spreadsheets, Data & AI

Are Your Backups Actually Working? How to Test a Restore

A backup you haven’t restored is a guess. Check that backups ran recently, restore a few files on a schedule, keep at least one copy offline or immutable, and remember that Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace data needs its own backup.

Also searched as: test a backup restore · backup not working · 3-2-1 backup rule · Microsoft 365 backup

Get it fixed Try this first

Starting price: From $150
Where: Remote, anywhere in the U.S.
Quote: Fixed price before work starts

Try this first

List what you need to protect: computers, servers, cloud apps and your website
Check the date of the last successful backup for each
Restore a few files to a different folder and open them
Keep a copy offline or immutable, out of ransomware’s reach
Back up Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace separately
Write down the restore steps and who does them

When it’s more than a quick fix

If backups have never been tested, live on the same network or don’t cover cloud apps, fix that before you need them.

How we fix it remotely

We audit your backups, set up proper 3-2-1 protection with offline copies, run a test restore and give you a written recovery plan.

In-depth guides

Hacked? What to Do in the First Hour (Email, Ransomware or Fake Invoices)

Get it fixed

How a remote fix works

1
Tell us what’s happening
Two minutes with the form on this page. No account needed.
2
Get a fixed price
A personal reply within one business day, with the price agreed before any work starts.
3
We fix it remotely
You approve access, follow progress and pay in your private client portal.

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Questions

What is the 3-2-1 backup rule?

Three copies of your data, on two different types of storage, with one copy off-site.

How often should I test my backups?

At least every few months, and after any big change to your systems.

Can you fix this remotely?