Windows XP: How to Backup data?

Case 1: Use Backup to Protect Data

The Backup utility in Windows® XP Professional helps you protect your files and information if your computer fails. For example, you can use Backup to copy the data on your hard drive and archive it on another hard drive, a disk, a CD, a DVD, or another computer. If your hard drive is erased or damaged, you can easily restore the data from the archived copy.

To start the Backup Utility in Windows XP Professional:

1. Open Backup. (Click Start, point to All Programs, point to Accessories, point to System Tools, and then click Backup.)

2. The Backup or Restore Wizard starts by default, unless you disabled it. If the Backup or Restore Wizard does not start by default, you can still use it to back up files by clicking the Tools menu, and then clicking Backup Wizard.

3. Click the Next.

4. In the Window that asks What do you want to do? click the circle next to Back up files and settings. Then click Next.

Choosing what to back up
For most people, the My documents and settings option is a better choice. This selection preserves your data files (including e-mail messages and address books) and your personal settings.
Choose where to store your backup
Under Choose a place to save your backup the default choice is drive A, which is usually your floppy drive (if you have one.) You probably won't be able to backup everything you need to on a floppy. You're best bet would be to click Browse and choose any of the following locations:

• Your computer's hard disk. The ideal backup location is a separate partition from the one you're backing up. If your hard disk is partitioned into drive C and drive D and your data is on drive C, you can safely back up to drive D.
• An external hard disk drive. These drives are no longer as expensive as they once were and work well as an external backup device.

To learn more about the Windows XP Backup Utility read Backup Made Easy.

Case 2: Copy and Paste to external backup device or CD or DVD
You can always make backup data by simple way, just copy and paste the files, photos, folders,....even the whole programs.

Back Up and Recover Your Information

Comments:
For me, I prefer case 2. I used to copy my important documents and photos to an External storage or Hardisk or CD. Because PC can be damaged by accident or having Hardware problems. It makes me feel comfortable when the copies are the same as my PC. So, make it a habit and you should start backup files now. Making partitions on Hardisk is Highly recommended to prevent any data lost due to Computer VIRUS or Trojans.