The first part of my AI development plan is a backup. Think of this as my PSA. If you don’t regularly do it, start backing up your system today.
It is easy to focus on the new tools and overlook the files already on the computer. Family photos, business records, creative work, and unfinished projects all deserve attention before starting to change the setup.
I am breaking this into three jobs: back up the files, check the computer’s encryption, and make sure I can recover access.
A backup needs to cover the places where important work actually lives, including extra drives. I also want a copy that an AI tool cannot edit or delete. An external drive that is disconnected after the backup is one option. A backup service with recoverable older versions is another, provided I understand its access controls.
Then I want to restore a harmless file. Seeing a completed backup message is helpful. Opening a restored copy tells me more and confirms I’ll be able to do so when (if) needed.
On Windows 11 Pro, BitLocker is the built-in drive encryption option I am reviewing and using. On a Mac, the comparable feature is FileVault. Linux users should follow their distribution’s encryption guidance; Ubuntu documents options using LUKS, a disk encryption system.
Encryption helps protect stored data if someone gains physical access to the device. It does not stop software from reading files that my signed-in account is already allowed to open.
Recovery matters too. I want the recovery key or recovery method stored safely somewhere I can reach if this computer will not start. It should never appear in a public screenshot.
My Windows guide also covers preparation before changing firmware settings. Those are the settings that control how the computer starts. I will follow the device-specific instructions and verify that encryption protection is active afterward. For today, one practical step is enough: identify the files you would hate to lose, back them up, and restore one harmless sample.
Previously: Get Started with a Safer and Secure AI Workspace
Next up: Give Development Its Own Place to Work