Choose the important folders
Start with Documents, Pictures, Desktop and any business folders. Include email archives or special program data only if you know where they are stored.
Choose a separate destination
Use an external drive or trusted Cloud storage: Files stored through an internet service so they can be accessed from approved devices. Full definition. The destination should not be the same internal drive.
Copy a small test first
Copy a few files, then open them from the backup location to confirm they work.
Copy the remaining files
Keep the computer connected to power and do not disconnect the drive during copying.
Check the result
Compare folder sizes and open several photos and documents from the backup.
Keep one copy disconnected
If using an external drive, disconnect it after the backup. This can protect it from some computer failures and harmful software.
Still stuck?
Social Blade IT Services can help onsite or remotely. We explain the next step before extra work or parts.