AutoSave vs. AutoRecover
AutoSave automatically saves your files to your OneDrive and SharePoint account. You’ll need to configure OneDrive or SharePoint so they’re correctly connected, and this is a feature available only in Microsoft 365. This also allows you to “co-edit” documents with others. AutoRecover temporarily keeps changes in a directory on your computer. Available since Office 2007, it does not automatically save your files. Instead, if your computer shuts off or Excel closes without saving, you have the option to recover your work. It saves this information on a set interval, usually 10 minutes, but it’s only temporary. If you choose not to recover your data, it will delete the data, and you’ll be back to square one.
How to Turn on AutoSave in Excel
Since 2010, Excel has made only minor changes to the AutoSave function. If you’re using Excel 2010 or later, you’ll find this menu in the same place.
How to Recover an Excel File Using AutoRecover
To access the AutoRecover version of your Excel workbook, select File > Open, then scroll down to the Recover Unsaved Workbooks section and choose your file.
What If My Version of Excel Doesn’t Have AutoSave?
If you don’t have an AutoSave option in your version of Excel or don’t want to use OneDrive or SharePoint to back up your files, you can also use third-party software like Google Drive or Dropbox to back up your data regularly. Before using these services, think carefully about potential security and space. If you’re backing up confidential information, there’s an inherent risk of a breach. If you’re looking to save documents for work, consult your workplace’s IT department, if available, for solutions they’ve vetted. Additionally, any backup service will have a limited amount of space, and you’ll probably want to use it to backup other files as well. More room is available, but you’ll have to subscribe to it. Look at your needs carefully before signing on to any backup service.
