The 3-2-1 backup rule is a simple way to think about protecting important files: keep three copies of your data, store them on two different types of media, and keep one copy off-site. The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) includes this approach in its backup guidance.

For a video creator, the files worth protecting may include original camera footage, audio recordings, project files, graphics, licensed music and sound effects, exports and client delivery documents. Losing only the final export may be inconvenient; losing the footage and project can mean rebuilding the work from scratch.

What the three numbers mean

Three copies means the working copy plus two backups. Two media types means not storing every copy on the same kind of device or in the same place. One off-site copy helps protect against theft, fire, flood or another event that affects the workspace and nearby drives together.

The rule is a useful baseline, not a complete security plan. A cloud account can be misconfigured or compromised, and external drives can fail. A backup that has never been checked may not restore when you need it.

A workable creator setup

After a shoot, copy the camera cards to your work drive and a separate backup drive before formatting the cards. Once the project is organised, sync or copy the important files to a cloud service or another location. Keep project files, media, audio and essential licences together or in clearly named folders.

For larger projects, you may not need to keep every proxy and temporary render forever. Decide what is essential, what can be recreated, and what the client or contract requires you to retain. Use consistent project names and dates so a future restore is manageable.

Test the backup

Periodically restore a sample file and open it. Check that the backup is current, that project media reconnects, and that you know how to access the off-site copy if your primary computer is unavailable. A backup only helps if it is complete and recoverable.

Use the 3-2-1 rule as a starting point and adjust it for your project size, deadlines, storage budget and retention obligations. For paid client work or sensitive material, check your contractual requirements and use appropriate access controls.

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