Backing Up Your Computer

Tucked away on your original Windows XP disc are a number of utility programs that will enable you to diagnose problems with your system and perform additional tasks. Today we will be looking at a very important program, the Backup Utility.

Unfortunately, most people only realise the importance of backing up their data after a system crash in which they lose a number of their important files. It is well nigh impossible to predict when such a catastrophe is going to occur so the importance of keeping copies of all your vital data cannot be stressed highly enough.

The Windows XP Backup Utility doesn't come standard with your operating system and you won't be able to get access to it using Add/Remove Windows Components . You will have to install it manually by inserting the Windows XP disc in the drive and browsing to the following location E:\VALUEADD\MSFT\NTBACK UP (where 'E:' is the letter of your CD drive). Double-click on the file NTBACKUP.MSI to begin the installation.


Select Your Backup Location

Before you start using the Backup Utility you'll need to decide where you're going to store your backup. A separate hard drive or some kind of removable media is going to be the safest option. However, if the capacity of your backup location is somewhat limited then you'll need to pick and choose what files you consider to be important.

Along with your word processing documents and spreadsheets don't forget your Internet settings. Your email messages and folders may be quite bulky but other items that won't take up too much space include your Bookmarks, Address Book and mail account settings. All of these can be easily exported from within the likes of Internet Explorer, Outlook and Outlook Express and could save you lots of time.

Once installed you'll be able to use the backup utility by clicking on Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Backup. You'll be launched straight into the Backup or Restore Wizard which will act as a handy step by step guide if you're using the Backup Utility for the first time. Alternatively, you can click on Advanced Mode and jump straight to the program itself where you configure your backup manually. If you go for the Wizard option the Windows XP Backup Utility will ask you to select which items you would like to backup. You'll be able to choose from the following:


My documents and settings Choosing this option will mean that all the data stored within your user profile is backed up including Favorites, desktop settings and cookies.
Everyone's documents and settings This will back up all users? profiles, in other words the entire contents of the Documents and Settings folder.
All information on this computer This option will create an Automated System Recovery disk that will help to restore your operating system in the event of a complete system crash. However, this option will only work fully for those who use Windows XP Professional Edition, even though you will be able to go through the motions of creating this within the Home Edition.
Let me choose what to backup Pick exactly which files and folders you want to include in your backup.

Written by Merlin 2005

why is it that the complete recovery function only works in win xp pro?
if it does not work in home? why is it included there?

jan.

Can I back all the information on my computer onto a USB storage device?I have a 40 gig USB drive.

Hya GSX.

That should do just fine. (If you don't have more then 40gb to backup anyway)