The need to backup files arises to every user now and again. Files and data are constantly under threat of deletion due to various reasons. Malicious software, power failures, disk corruption are just some of the few reasons that cause valuable data to be lost forever. Therefore it is important to backup all your data regularly.
Windows 7 comes with a handy built-in feature to backup your data. This is known as the Windows Backup and Restore Center. It is free and easy to use.
There are 2 main backup modes available on the Windows 7 Backup and Restore Center. These are:
• Automatic Backup – Automatic Backup backs up your files and data. This can be used to ensure the safety of your information such as documents and media files. To use Automatic Backup, go to Start->Control Panel->System and Maintenance->Backup and Restore. Here you will be given a wizard with options to backup your files and folders at set time periods. You will only be requested to set up backups the first time you enter the wizard; updates will occur automatically at given time periods once you have set up your computer for regular backups. You can also backup your data at any time you wish. The best way to do this is to backup your data to an external source such as an external hard disk, DVD or network server.
• Complete PC Backup and Restore – While Automatic Backup only backs up your data, Complete PC Backup and Restore creates an image of your computer including user settings and operating system. This is like a snapshot in time which you can revert to in case your computer malfunctions and you cannot access your operating system. To access this option, go to Start->Control Panel->System and Maintenance->Backup and Restore and choose the ‘Create a System Image’ option.
You will be asked to specify where to create this image. It is recommended that you use an external storage device to create this image on. If your operating system gets damaged in any way, you can simply go to the Backup and Restore Center and restore your computer from the image, which will restore your system to the way it was at the point at which you made the image.
The Windows 7 Backup tool is an extremely useful application that helps to keep your data and operating system safe in case of system failure.
