IT Support Playbooks / IT Support Guides
Test a file restore rather than trusting a backup notification
A successful backup job does not prove a user can recover the right version of a document. Validate a controlled restore into a separate location.
Environment and inputs: Everyday IT support · Windows PowerShell examples unless specified
Try the diagnostic command
Use the stated shell and platform. Replace sample domains, addresses, services and paths with values from the system you are authorized to support.
Get-FileHash -LiteralPath 'C:\RestoreTest\sample.txt' -Algorithm SHA256How to read the result
In PowerShell, the hash can compare the restored file with a known reference of the same version. A different digest may be expected if you selected a different recovery point.
What to do next
Select a non-sensitive test file and restore it to an isolated destination. Open it with the relevant application, verify content and record the recovery point and elapsed time.
Before you make a change
Do not overwrite the only live copy during a test. Database and application recovery require consistency checks beyond comparing individual file hashes.