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Open Windows XP Backup
Windows XP includes its own backup program, although you may need to do some digging to find it. You can also take your pick of third-party programs (listed at the end of this column) that add bells and whistles you won't find in the basic Windows XP Backup utility.
If you use Windows XP Professional, the Windows Backup utility (Ntbackup.exe) should be ready for use. If you use Windows XP Home Edition, you'll need to follow these steps to install the utility:
- Ordered List ItemInsert your Windows XP CD into the drive and, if necessary, double-click the CD icon in My Computer.
- On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP screen, click Perform Additional Tasks.
- Click Browse this CD.
- In Windows Explorer, double-click the ValueAdd folder, then Msft, and then Ntbackup.
- Double-click Ntbackup.msi to install the Backup utility.
For more information, see How to Install Backup in Windows XP Home Edition. With that chore out of the way, you're ready to begin backing up. By default, the Backup utility uses a wizard that makes the process straightforward. To start Backup:
- Ordered List ItemClick Start, point to All Programs, point to Accessories, point to System Tools, and then click Backup to start the wizard.
- Click Next to skip past the opening page, choose Back up files and settings from the second page, and then click Next. You should see the page shown in Figure 1, which represents your first decision point.
Decide What to Back Up
You might be tempted to click All information on this computer so that you can back up every bit of data on your computer. Think twice before choosing this option, however. If you've installed a slew of software, your backup could add up to many gigabytes. 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 the personal settings stored in the Windows Registry.
If several people use your computer—as might be the case on a shared family PC—select Everyone's documents and settings. This option backs up personal files and preferences for every user with an account on the computer.
Enjoy,
Your ArtIT Team