I'm wondering if there's a way in Windows 10 to setup an external backup drive to detect any changes to files on my machine to be backed up as soon as it's plugged in. To explain this in point form, I'd like to:
1) plug in my back up drive.
2) The drive (or some utility) automatically scans key files and folders to check for changes (added, modified, or deleted files).
3) Any changes it detects get backed up.
In step 2), when I say "key" files, I mean only files I want backed up, not everything on my machine.
Do I need a special kind of hard drive for this?
Is there an online guide on how to set this up?
Thanks.
Hi idh10,
I think what you're requesting is a mirror image of your drive.
If that is what you are looking for, then it is easy: find a good backup program, install it, and let it do its thing.
There is a problem with this approach, however. If you leave the backup drive connected to your system all the time, then you are vulnerable to all the problems that an internet-connected computer is susceptible to. This includes all forms of virus and malware attack. It is best to leave your backup drive separated from the internet.
What I do is connect the external drive once a week to mirror the drives I deem important, and disconnect it for the rest of the time. That way, it is not vulnerable to mischief during the week, and I can always use it to return my system to its former state. If it isn't plugged in, then it is safe and can't be mucked up by the bad guys..
This is a thought and nothing more. It is for you to decide what is best, based on your habits.
Richard
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I run Acronis and Easeus to do my systen image backups. I will sometimes run backup to a local drive and also run backup to my external drive. If you are looking for just file backup then you might want to set up W10 File History.
As Richard has stated you really need to keep a system image stored somewhere that is not always connected to that PC.
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