Start a 3-2-1 Backup at Home

What 3-2-1 means

• 3 copies: the working data plus two copies
• 2 media or devices: avoid one shared point of failure
• 1 off-site or isolated: survive theft, fire, and ransomware

A realistic home setup

Start with a PC copy, an automated NAS backup, and either encrypted cloud storage or an external drive stored elsewhere. Disconnect the external drive after backup.

Test restores, not just backup logs

Every month, restore several random files to another folder and open them. A successful job status is not proof that recovery works.

Protect in this order

1. Irreplaceable family photos and records
2. Work and configuration files that are costly to rebuild
3. Downloadable media and installers

Real-world scenario

A PC photo library, an automatic NAS backup, and an encrypted cloud or off-site removable copy create three copies across different failure points. Disconnect removable media after backup so it remains isolated.

Action checklist

• Inventory originals and copy locations
• Alert on failed automatic jobs
• Keep one off-site or isolated copy
• Restore random files every month

Frequently asked questions

Is synchronization a backup?

Not by itself when deletion and corruption replicate immediately; versions, retention, and isolation are needed.

Is one cloud copy enough?

Keep a local recovery copy for account lockout and accidental deletion scenarios.