If a computer is being replaced or repaired, maintaining backups of vital data and information is important.  ITS provides file storage solutions for the University that are appropriate for storing your work-related data and files. 

Long-Term Storage Option

ITS recommends storing any work-related data and files on University cloud or network file storage solutions. No University data or files should be stored on your computer itself or any external hard drive or USB drive connected to your computer. 

• Look in "Desktop", "Documents", “Pictures”, “Videos”, "Downloads", and “Music” for files to back up 

• Consider doing a scan of your entire drive for key file types such as .docx, .jpg, .zip, .xlsx, .pdf, etc., to find files that you need to back up

• Expand Windows Explorer “This PC” to see if there are any user-created folders that you need to back up 

Temporary Storage Option Needed

• Back up bookmarks/bookmarks from the browser(s) you use

  • Many browsers allow you to sign in to synchronize bookmarks and other settings across multiple computers and mobile devices

  • To export/import your bookmarks

    • Firefox

    • Chrome

    • Edge (sign in to sync)

• Back up any files stored in an application folder (such as an address book) that supports the app 

• If you have an email signature saved with special formatting and don’t want to re-create it, you can back it up from C:\Users\%username%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Signatures

• Back up any email .pst files with email archives

No Storage Option Needed

Make a list or other notes of these items:

• Installed software that you use (check “Programs” for a list)

• Network shares that need to be mapped

• App clients you have such as OneDrive and what they are connected to
  
  

• Departmental/shared mailboxes you access in Outlook

• Departmental/shared calendars you access in Outlook

• Peripherals such as printer, copier, or scanner, etc. that connect to your PC either directly or via the network