Photo and Document Backups: Test the Restore
Having a copy is not the same as being able to use it.
The essentials
CISA’s 3-2-1 approach calls for three copies, two media types and one copy offsite. A second folder on the same device does not separate hardware risk.
Put it into practice
Choose irreplaceable folders, map the copies and record their dates. Synchronization may propagate deletions, so inspect version history and recovery limits rather than assuming they exist.
What to check
Restore one sample into a separate temporary folder and open it without overwriting the original. Check its contents and date, and access to any encryption recovery key. Monitor failed jobs and storage even when backups run automatically.
