Rule of thumb: Never hand your computer to anyone without first backing up your files.

Backup is the responsibility of the user and it should never be assumed that any backup is taking place unless it is actively monitored by the user. It is recommended that users backup to either a network resource, cloud solution (see OneDrive), or external device. There is no single backup option that is best for every user, but it is imperative that every user back up using the resources that best suit their needs and usage.

Files that should be backed up may include, but are not limited to:

• Documents, pictures, media
• Desktop items
• Internet favorites

Backups performed by the UW-Stout Technology Help Desk are a best effort and meant only to serve as a secondary, "just-in-case," measure that is usually as a result of a hardware failure; the user is responsible for backing up prior to requesting any service that may result in data loss, in particular what we on campus commonly refer to as a "Reimage ." Backups performed at the Technology Help Desk are of the user's profile (which includes My Documents, and Desktop); files stored in other locations are not likely to be discovered nor backed up.