How to verify a backup before you need to restore it

Check the shape of the backup

Compare the number of files, total bytes, folder names, and date range between source and destination. Differences are not always errors—temporary files and operating-system metadata may be excluded—but every difference should have an explanation.

Review the backup log for permission errors, unavailable files, unsupported names, and destination capacity warnings. A job can finish successfully while skipping individual items.

Use a representative sample

• Open one very recent file and one of the oldest files.
• Test the largest video or archive and a few small documents.
• Include unusual formats, edited media, and files with long names.
• Check metadata that matters, such as capture date, document timestamps, or folder structure.

Perform a small restore drill

Choose a temporary empty folder and restore several items into it. Do not overwrite the working originals. Confirm that another application can open the restored files and that you understand any password, encryption key, or account step required by the destination.

For a NAS or remote server, try the restore from a second device. That reveals whether the process depends on credentials or configuration stored only on the original computer.

Record the recovery instructions

• Where the copies are stored and how often they are updated.
• Which app or protocol is needed to reach them.
• Where encryption recovery information is kept.
• The date and result of the last sample restore.