Your laptop could fail, get lost, or get damaged right before a deadline. North Central University IT can't repair personal devices or recover data from them, so a backup is the only way to get your files back. Here's how to protect your schoolwork and the rest of your laptop.
Schoolwork: save it in OneDrive
Save class files in the OneDrive folder for your NCU account. They're stored in the cloud, so you can open them from any device even if your laptop dies. See Files @ NCU for Students.
OneDrive isn't forever
Your NCU OneDrive goes away after you leave NCU. Keep your own copy of anything you want long term.
Everything else: back up the whole laptop
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Laptop
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How
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Windows
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Connect an external drive, open Control Panel > File History, and select Turn on. Windows backs up your files to the drive automatically while it's connected.
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Mac
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Connect an external drive, open System Settings > General > Time Machine, and select Add Backup Disk. Time Machine backs up automatically while the drive is connected.
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- Plug in your backup drive at least once a week.
- Keep the drive somewhere other than your laptop bag, so one loss doesn't take both.
- Getting a new laptop? Use your backup to move your files over.
Get help
IT can help with NCU accounts and systems on your laptop, like Wi-Fi and Microsoft 365. For repairs, see Help with Your Personal Device.
Still need help? Call the IT Service Desk at 612.343.4170 or visit Miller Hall 226, Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. CT.