When our computer encounters issues, we might search on Google "how to back up computer to SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD". We backup our files to the internal hard drive since, during times of slow computer performance, we can't access the drive where our backups are stored. The reason for selecting SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD lies in its high-speed capabilities as an external hard drive, allowing for efficient copying and restoration of backups. Keep reading to understand the significance of backing up a computer to an external hard drive and discover five simple methods to achieve this.

backup computer to sandisk extreme portable ssd

Why Back Up Computer to SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD

In today's digital age, backing up our data is crucial. We could lose our data due to computer virus infections, system formatting, human errors, or natural disasters.

There are various backup storage devices available to safeguard our data. For instance, we can back up our system to another hard drive or opt for cloud storage. However, utilizing an external hard drive like the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is one of the most effective methods.

< strong > Here are the key features: < / strong >

    • Save Storage Space: Free up space on the system hard drive
    • Cost-effective: Prices are often worth the value and budget-friendly
    • Easy to Carry: Access important information from anywhere
    • No Internet Needed: It can be used even without an internet connection. (Cloud usage requires internet)

Above all these highlighted features, it's crucial to back up your computer to an external hard drive like the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD. So, how do you back up a computer to an external hard drive? You'll find four straightforward methods to accomplish this.

How to Backup Computer to SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD for Windows

Here are three methods you can attempt if your device's operating system is Windows: 1. **Method One:** Firstly, ensure your device is connected to the internet. Then, press the 'Windows key + I' on your keyboard to open the Settings app. Navigate to 'Update & Security,' and from there, click on 'Check for updates.' This will allow your system to search for any available OS updates that might resolve the issue. 2. **Method Two:** If updating doesn't help, try performing a System Restore. Access the Start menu, type 'Create a restore point' in the search bar, and select it. In the System Properties window, click on the 'System Restore' button. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point prior to when the problem started occurring. 3. **Method Three:** Should the previous methods fail, you could consider resetting your PC. Go to Settings, then 'Update & Security,' and choose 'Recovery.' Under 'Reset this PC,' opt for either 'Keep my files' or 'Remove everything,' depending on your preference. This will reset your operating system to its original state while preserving or deleting your personal files. Remember to back up your important data before attempting any of these steps to avoid potential data loss.

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Method 1: Using a Reliable Backup Software [Windows 11/10/8/7] Step 1: Choose a Backup Software Select a trustworthy backup software that suits your needs, such as Windows built-in Backup and Restore feature, or third-party options like Acronis True Image, tools Todo Backup, or Macrium Reflect. Step 2: Install and Launch the Software Download and install the chosen software on your Windows computer. Once installed, launch the application. Step 3: Configure Backup Settings In the software's settings, configure the backup options according to your preferences. This typically includes selecting the source of files and folders you want to back up, choosing a destination for the backup (external hard drive, network location, or cloud storage), and deciding on a backup schedule (daily, weekly, or monthly). Step 4: Create a Backup Plan Create a new backup plan by providing a name and description for easy identification later. You may also choose to include system images or specific file types in the backup. Step 5: Start the Backup Process Initiate the backup process by clicking on the "Start Backup" or "Backup Now" button. The software will then begin copying the selected files to the designated backup location. This may take some time, depending on the amount of data. Step 6: Verify the Backup Once the backup is complete, verify its integrity by checking the contents of the backup folder or by performing a test restore to ensure that all files are accessible and undamaged. Step 7: Schedule Regular Backups To ensure your data remains up-to-date, set up automatic backups according to your chosen schedule. This will allow the software to create new backups whenever changes are made to your important files. Step 8: Maintain Your Backup Regularly check the health of your backup storage device and update the backup when necessary. In case of hardware failure or data loss, you can rely on your backup to restore your files. Remember, having a reliable backup solution is crucial for protecting your valuable data from accidental deletion, hardware failures, or malware attacks.

Todo Backup Home is an all-encompassing backup solution. It enables you to back up your computer to a SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD. Furthermore, it allows you to back up the entire system and individual files to various destinations. You can also use it to create backups of files, systems, disks, partitions, Outlook emails, or create a system image to safeguard against unexpected data loss.

< strong >Here is the essential step to automatically backup to an external hard drive.< /strong > Below is the essential step for automatically backing up to an external hard drive: 1. Connect the external hard drive to your computer: Ensure that your external hard drive is properly connected to your computer using a USB cable or other compatible connection method. 2. Enable backup feature: Access your operating system's backup settings. For Windows users, go to "Settings" > "Update & Security" > "Backup," and then click "Add a drive" to select your external hard drive. For macOS users, open "System Preferences" > "Time Machine" and choose your external hard drive as the backup disk. 3. Configure backup options: Customize your backup preferences. In Windows, you can choose which folders and files to include or exclude. On macOS, Time Machine typically backs up everything by default, but you can exclude specific items if needed. 4. Schedule backups: Set up automatic backup intervals according to your preference. Windows users can choose between daily, weekly, or monthly backups. With Time Machine on macOS, backups are automatic by default, but you can adjust the frequency in the advanced settings. 5. Start the initial backup: After configuring your settings, initiate the first backup manually. This may take some time depending on the amount of data you have. 6. Verify and monitor backups: Once the initial backup is complete, ensure that the process was successful by checking the contents of your external hard drive. Regularly review backup logs or notifications to confirm ongoing backups are occurring as scheduled. 7. Maintain the backup: Keep your external hard drive plugged in and powered on during scheduled backup times. Occasionally check its connection to ensure it remains stable. By following these steps, your data will be automatically backed up to the external hard drive at your specified intervals, providing a secure copy in case of any data loss or system failures.

Step 1. Launch the Todo Backup software, and begin by selecting the backup content.

tools create backup

Step 2. There are four data backup categories available: File, Disk, OS, and Mail. Choose what you want to back up.

choose backup source

Step 3. After choosing the backup source, click on the "Options" button located at the bottom of the screen.

Step 4. Click on the "Backup Scheme" tab > "Upon Event".

Step 5. Click on the "Execute Backup At" dropdown menu and select the "USB device plugged in" option. Press the OK button.

upon event

Step 6. Return to select a backup location, which can be another local hard drive, network drive, or cloud storage.

select backup destination

Step 7. The automated backup function will now become active.

Method 2: Using File History  [Windows 10/8]

You can utilize File History to back up your files to both your internal and external hard drives. Although it's initially configured to backup your files to the internal drive, you can easily modify this setting. However, this feature is exclusive to Windows 10 and 8 operating systems.

Here's how to back up your computer to Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD using File History:

Step 1. Connect your Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD to your computer.

Step 2. Open Control Panel and click on System and Security, then click on File History.

find file history

Step 3. Click on Select drive, then click Turn on to activate File History.

Click "Select Drive". click select drive

Step 4. Select your external hard drive as shown below and click on OK.

select a file history drive

Once you've done all the steps above, File History will keep your backed-up files on your chosen external hard drive.

Method 3: Using Windows Backup for Windows 7

The Windows Backup feature is another method to back up your computer to an external hard drive such as the Sandisk Extreme Portable SSD. It can be found in the Control Panel, ensuring easy accessibility and usage. This option is specifically designed for Windows 7 users.

Step 1. Plug your SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD into your computer.

Step 2. Open Control Panel and click on System and Security, then select Backup and Restore.

find backup and restore

Step 3. Click on Set up backup. A popup will appear, allowing you to select the external hard drive as the backup location. Click Next to complete the setup.

select the backup location

Follow all the steps above, and Windows Backup will function properly.

How to Backup Computer to SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD for Mac Backing up your computer to an external storage device like the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD is crucial for protecting your important data. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create a backup of your Mac to this high-speed solid-state drive: 1. **Connect the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD to your Mac:** - Using the provided USB-C cable, connect the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD to your Mac's USB-C port or, if your Mac has an older USB-A port, use an adapter. - Ensure the drive is powered on and recognized by your Mac. 2. **Open Time Machine:** - Time Machine is Apple's built-in backup software. To access it, click on the Apple menu in the top left corner of your screen and select "System Preferences." - Click on "Time Machine" and then choose "Select Backup Disk." 3. **Select the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD:** - In the Time Machine preferences window, you'll see a list of available backup disks. - Select the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD from the list and click "Use Disk." 4. **Backup Your Data:** - If this is your first backup, Time Machine will ask if you want to erase the SSD first. Confirm if you're okay with this, as it will remove any existing data on the drive. - Click "Backup Now" to initiate the initial backup process. This may take some time depending on the amount of data on your Mac. 5. **Monitor the Backup Progress:** - You can observe the backup progress in the Time Machine preferences or via the Time Machine icon in the menu bar. It will show a progress bar and estimated time remaining. - Do not disconnect the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD until the backup is complete. 6. **Set Up Automatic Backups:** - To ensure your data remains up-to-date, enable automatic backups. In the Time Machine preferences, check the box next to "Backup Automatically" and adjust the schedule as needed. - It's recommended to keep your Mac plugged in during automatic backups to avoid interruptions. 7. **Verify the Backup:** - Once the initial backup is finished, open the Time Machine app and perform a quick check to ensure your files and folders are visible and accessible. Now that your Mac is backed up to the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD, you have peace of mind knowing your data is safe and easily recoverable in case of any issues with your computer. Remember to periodically update your backups to keep them current.

If your device's operating system is macOS or Mac OS X, you can refer to the two methods below:

Method 4: Using Time Machine for Mac If you have a backup of your Mac using Apple's built-in Time Machine feature, you can restore your Safari bookmarks from there. Here's how: 1. Connect the external hard drive with your Time Machine backup to your Mac. 2. Open Time Machine by clicking on its icon in your Dock or by searching for it in Spotlight (press Command + Space). 3. Time Machine will display a backup timeline. If you're prompted, enter your administrator password to proceed. 4. Locate and click on the "Safari" app icon in the upper part of the screen. This will show Safari-related backups. 5. Browse through the backups on the right side of the screen, finding the one from a date when you remember having the missing bookmark. 6. Click on the backup, then find and expand the "Bookmarks.plist" file under "Library" > "Safari." 7. Preview the bookmarks to ensure they're the ones you want to restore. If so, click the "Restore" button in the bottom right corner of the Time Machine window. 8. Time Machine will ask you to confirm the restoration. Click "Restore" again to proceed. 9. Once the restoration is complete, restart Safari. Your bookmarks should now be back in your bookmarks bar. Remember that restoring from a Time Machine backup may overwrite any changes made to your system since the backup was created.

For Mac users, Time Machine is an excellent tool for backing up your computer to an external hard drive like the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD. Here are the essential steps to backup your computer to the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD: 1. Connect the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD to your Mac using the provided USB cable. 2. Ensure your Mac recognizes the drive by checking its appearance in the Finder or the sidebar of the Time Machine preferences. 3. Open "System Preferences" from your Dock or by clicking on the Apple logo in the top-left corner and selecting "System Preferences." 4. Click on "Time Machine" to open the Time Machine settings. 5. If this is your first time using Time Machine, you'll be prompted to select a backup disk. Click "Select Backup Disk..." 6. In the list of available disks, choose the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD and click "Use Disk." 7. Time Machine will now ask if you want to erase the SSD for a fresh backup. If this is your first backup, it's recommended to proceed with erasing to ensure a clean start. Otherwise, if you've already used the SSD for backups, confirm that you want to continue using it. 8. Click "Backup Now" to initiate the initial backup process. This may take some time depending on how much data you have on your computer. 9. Once the backup is complete, Time Machine will automatically create incremental backups at regular intervals, ensuring your data is always up to date. Remember to keep your SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD connected during backup periods and to occasionally verify the backup to ensure its integrity.

Step 1. Click on the Time Machine icon, then select Open Time Machine Preferences.

Open Time Machine preference

Step 2. Click on Select Backup Disk, and choose your external hard drive to store your backups.

select backup disk

Step 3. Check the Back Up Automatically option to commence creating a backup of your Mac.

enable backup automatically

You can back up your computer to an external hard drive like the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD by following the steps outlined above.

Method 5: Using Tools - Todo Backup for Mac

Todo Backup for Mac is a software specifically designed for Mac users. It also allows you to back up your computer to an external hard drive like the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD. Furthermore, its intelligent backup feature, along with professional functions such as system imaging and cloning, sets it apart from others. You have the flexibility to schedule backups daily, weekly, or monthly based on your needs. Most notably, it offers full backup, incremental backup, and differential backup options.

Summary

Hoping this guide can assist you if you're wondering how to backup computer to SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD. You can opt for the suitable method, regardless of whether your computer runs on Windows or Mac. If your device operates on Windows, I highly recommend using Todo Backup as your top choice. It offers numerous essential features to facilitate backing up your computer. Here are some standout attributes of the software:

Highlighted features:

Pros:

    • 1. High backup speed
    • 2. Security Zone Backup
    • 3. Prime Technical Support
    • 4. Offsite copy
    • 5. WinPE Bootable Disk

Frequently Asked Questions

< strong >1. Are external SSDs good for backup?

YES. An SSD is a good choice for an external drive due to its compact size, faster performance, and improved durability. The downside is that you'll typically pay more for the same storage capacity compared to an HDD. However, as technology advances, the prices of SSDs are expected to continue decreasing.

2. How many GB do I need to backup my computer?

Generally speaking, the amount of storage a backup drive should have is 1.5-2 times the size of your computer's storage. So, if your Windows 11 laptop has 128GB of storage, you'd want a backup drive with 256GB of space.