This article is the second in a series how to protect data by utilizing the Windows XP backup utility. The article will detail how to use the utility to manually backup files to an external hard drive, which is the recommended media for backups, as the process can be automated, is quick, and the media is inexpensive.

When selecting an external hard drive for backing up data make sure to select a drive that is as large as the internal hard drive if not larger. Most, if not all, external hard drives on the market connect via a USB port and others via a FireWire port. When the hard is connected to the computer, the system will detect the drive and assign a drive letter (E, F, G, etc.). Take note of the assigned letter, as it will be needed when backing up the system.

Manually Backup Files

1. Start | All Programs | Accessories | System Tools | Backup


2. Click Next in the Backup or Restore Wizard dialog box


3. Make sure Backup files and settings is selected then click Next


4. In the What to Back Up dialog select the data to backup. It is recommended that for the first backup All information on this computer is selected. This option will backup all software, data and settings, which will allow for a quick recovery in case of system failure.


5. In the Backup Type, Destination, and Name dialog box select the drive letter for the external hard drive and provide a name for the backup. Click Next.

Note: If performing an All information backup a floppy disk will be necessary for storing the system recovery information.

6. In the Completing the Backup or Restore dialog box click Finish to start the backup.

At this point all the files will be copied to the external hard drive. A dialog box will appear showing the process of the backup.

When the backup is completed remove the external hard drive from the computer and store in a safe location. For the best data protection store the external hard drive in a different location than the system such as a bank or a friend’s house.

Recommended External Hard Drives

Seagate 200GB and 500GB external hard drives provide efficient and reliable backup protection that is easy to setup, flexible, fast and small enough to be portable.