This week’s goal
Test a restore while nothing was broken.
This is the least dramatic time to test backups, which makes it the best time. Annoying how often sensible advice is correct.
What I actually did
I picked a small folder, restored it into a temporary location, and checked the files.
The test answered useful questions:
- can I find the backup?
- do I know the restore command?
- are permissions sensible after restore?
- did the restored files actually open?
- did I document the process?
The answer was mostly yes, with some notes that needed tidying.
What broke, or nearly did
I initially restored to a path that was more confusing than necessary.
Technically it worked. Emotionally it felt like I had hidden my own keys in a different coat.
What I’m keeping
- Restore into a clearly named test folder
- Check permissions after restore
- Keep the restore notes near the backup notes
- Test small before trusting big
SmallGrid takeaway
Backups become real when you restore from them. A tiny restore test now is worth more than a perfect backup plan you have never used.