Tip #11: Back Up Your Data – Then Make Sure the Backup Actually Works

Most businesses have backups. But having backups and knowing those backups actually work are two very different things. A test restore is the only way to prove your data can be recovered when it matters.

What to do:

• Schedule a test restore with your IT provider at least once per quarter, although monthly is ideal. Restore a file, a folder, and at least once per year, a full system.
• Document the result, including what was tested, how long it took, and whether the restore was successful.
• Use the results to adjust your backup plan, including your backup schedule, storage, or provider if gaps show up.

Common mistake: A business runs automatic backups every night for two years, but no one checks whether they can actually be restored. A licensing issue quietly stops the backup software from writing new files eight months ago. Then ransomware hits. The IT team goes to restore from backup, only to discover the most recent working backup is eight months old.

A backup job showing “successful” in a dashboard is not the same as a confirmed, tested, restorable backup.

The test restore is the proof. Without it, you’re trusting that your recovery plan works instead of knowing it does.

How to know it’s done:

• A successful test restore has been completed within the last 90 days
• The test restore is on a recurring calendar reminder – quarterly at minimum