Sync keeps files current
Services like OneDrive and SharePoint are excellent for collaboration. When a file changes on one device, the change can appear on other devices and in the cloud. That is convenient, but it also means mistakes can spread quickly.
Backup keeps recovery options
A backup should give the business a way to recover data after deletion, corruption, ransomware, accidental overwriting or account compromise. The important question is not only where files are stored, but how quickly and how completely they can be restored.
Common business risks
- A user deletes a folder and only notices weeks later.
- A compromised account removes or encrypts shared files.
- A laptop fails before unsynced local data is copied elsewhere.
- Important email or SharePoint content is removed during staff changes.
What to review
List the systems that contain important data: Microsoft 365 email, OneDrive, SharePoint, accounting exports, local folders, server shares and line-of-business applications. Then confirm the restore process, retention period and who is responsible for checking it.
Good next step: test one real restore before you need it. A backup plan that has never been tested is still a guess.