You should create your initial backup immediately after initial system setup. As you add new software
and data files, you should continue to back up your system on a regular basis to maintain a reasonably
current backup. Your initial and subsequent backups allow you to restore your data and settings if a
failure occurs.
NOTE: For detailed instructions on various backup and restore options, perform a search for these
topics in Help and Support. To access Help and Support, select Start > Help and Support.
You can back up your information to an optional external hard drive, a network drive, or discs.
Note the following when backing up your information:
●
Store personal files in the Documents library, and back it up regularly.
●
Back up templates that are stored in their associated directories.
●
Save customized settings that appear in a window, toolbar, or menu bar by taking a screen shot
of your settings. The screen shot can be a time-saver if you have to reset your preferences.
●
When backing up to discs, number each disc after removing it from the drive.
To create a backup using Windows Backup and Restore:
NOTE: The backup process may take over an hour, depending on file size and the speed of the
computer.
1. Select Start > All Programs > Maintenance > Backup and Restore.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your backup.
System Restore
If you have a problem that might be due to software that you installed on your computer, use System
Restore to return the computer to a previous restore point. You can also set restore points manually.
NOTE: Always use this System Restore procedure before you use the System Recovery feature.
To start System Restore:
1. Close all open programs.
2. Click the Start button, right-click Computer, and then click Properties.
3. Click System protection, click System Restore, click Next, and then follow the on-screen
instructions.
24 Chapter 4 Setting up, backing up, restoring, and recovering Windows 7