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Wake Forest University

Set up your always-on backup strategy

Modified on: Fri, May 8, 2026 1:32 PM


Local + Cloud: a perfect duo to keep your student projects safe

Set up your always-on backup strategy at Wake Forest.

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NOTE

The below guidance is written with students in mind. Faculty and staff should use Crashplan.

Backups create a safety net and store your important work in more than one location. Several approaches are available but we list some effective options below.

Select one from the below list.

Multiple always-on backups can interfere with one another.

Built-in Backup Tools that come with your Operating System:

Some operating systems, such as Windows and macOS, include backup features that allow you to automatically copy some or all of your files from your computer to a cloud location. To learn more, see:

Cloud storage + sync local folders

Google Drive

Through your @wfu.edu Workspace account, every student has access to cloud storage. Set up Google Drive for Desktop and sync local folders, ensuring your work is saved here and in the secure cloud, automatically.

  1. Install Drive for desktop - Google Workspace Learning Center
  2. Open files on your desktop - Google Workspace Learning Center
  3. Set up sync - Google Workspace Learning Center
  4. Getting started and steps to sync your important folders: Get started with Google Drive for desktop

    In the Drive app, go to the settings icon (upper right), then Add Folder.

    A screenshot showing the Google Drive for desktop settings menu with the 'Add folder' button highlighted to initiate folder synchronization.

Microsoft OneDrive

OneDrive is the Microsoft cloud storage platform available to all WFU students, faculty, and staff through your Microsoft 365 license.

  1. To access WFU-licensed OneDrive cloud storage, request your WFU Microsoft license. The license is automatically assigned and is available in seconds.
  2. Download OneDrive - Microsoft Support
  3. Back up your folders with OneDrive - Microsoft Support by syncing key folders on your laptop (e.g., Documents, Desktop, and/or Downloads).

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