Warning if you use the ACN or you have a roaming profile
In rare cases, your data may be wiped if you don't back up. This only happens if you connect your computer to the network using a cable after being away from the office for several months. Your computer returns to an earlier version which removes newer files. Always back up your files so that you do not lose them.
Who is this for
This page is for professional services staff who use the ACN or who have a roaming profile.
What data is at risk
If you do not back up your data, the worst-case scenario is that your folders could be overwritten. This could happen if you connect to the network with a cable after a long period away from the office. Your data would be lost forever.
The following folders would be overwritten:
- Documents
- Pictures
- Downloads
- Favourites
- Links
- Music
- Passwords saved by your browser
Where you should back up
Saving your personal files to OneDrive prevents the risk of your files being overwritten and deleted. It also means you can access your files on any device.
You can save team or group documents to a SharePoint site or a shared network drive. This allows your colleagues to access documents and removes the risk of files getting overwritten.
How to back up
Backing up your documents in OneDrive
Windows
If you have a Windows laptop or computer, the OneDrive app automatically syncs files from your documents, pictures and desktop folders with the cloud. That means you don’t need to manually back up. You just need to save your files to the OneDrive folder. Microsoft have advice on syncing files with OneDrive in Windows.
Mac
If you have a Mac computer or Macbook, you can install the Microsoft OneDrive sync app for Mac. A copy of your OneDrive gets downloaded to your Mac and a OneDrive folder is created. Any changes you make, such as adding or deleting files, get synced to the cloud. Micrsoft have instructions on syncing files with OneDrive on macOS.
Backing up passwords saved in your browser
If you save your passwords in your browser, you may want to export them:
Microsoft Edge
If you sign into Edge with your @cam.ac.uk email address you can sync your passwords to your account.
- Select your profile icon in the top left corner of the screen.
- Select ‘Settings’ (the cog icon).
- Select ‘Privacy’ and then ‘Sync’.
- Switch on ‘Passwords’ if it’s not already switched on.
Chrome
- Select the ‘Chrome’ menu in the toolbar and choose ‘Settings’.
- Select ‘Passwords’.
- Click above the list of saved passwords and select ‘Export passwords’.
- Select ‘Export passwords’ and enter the password you use to log in to your computer if asked.
- Save the file to your desktop and keep a copy somewhere else, for example OneDrive or a USB stick.
Backing up your bookmarks or favourites saved in your browser
If you have a lot of bookmarks saved in your browser you may want to export them:
Microsoft Edge
If you sign into Edge with your @cam.ac.uk email address you can sync your passwords to your account.
- Select your profile icon in the top left corner of the screen.
- Select ‘Settings’ (the cog icon).
- Select ‘Privacy’ and then ‘Sync’.
- Switch on ‘Favourites’ if it’s not already switched on.
Chrome
- Select ‘More’ (three dots icon) in the top right.
- Select ‘Bookmarks’ then ‘Bookmark Manager’.
- At the top, select ‘More’ then ‘Export Bookmarks’.
- Save the .HTML file and keep a copy somewhere secure, for example OneDrive.
Where to get help
If you need help backing up your personal files, please contact UIS Service Desk.