Back up your laptop before a repair

We take care with your data, but some faults (a failing drive, liquid damage) put files at risk no matter who repairs them. If the computer still turns on, make a backup first.

Windows

1. Plug in an external drive with enough free space.
2. Open Settings → System → Storage → Advanced storage settings → Backup options, or use File History.
3. Choose the external drive and start a backup.
4. Check you can open a few files from the drive.

Mac

1. Plug in an external drive.
2. Open System Settings → General → Time Machine.
3. Add the drive as a backup disk and choose “Back Up Now”.
4. Wait for the first backup to finish before unplugging.

TipCan’t back up because the computer won’t start? Tell us when you book. We’ll try to recover your files before any repair.