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What you need to know
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You can back up your information to an optional external hard drive, a flash drive, a network
drive, or discs.
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Connect the computer to AC power during backups.
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Allow enough time for the backup. Depending on files sizes, it may take more than an hour.
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Verify the amount of free space on your backup storage device before you back up.
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You should back up:
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Before adding or changing software or hardware.
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Before the computer is repaired or restored.
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On a regular schedule to be sure you have recent copies of personal information.
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After you add many files—for example, if you saved videos from a birthday party.
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Before using antivirus software to remove a malicious program.
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After adding information that is hard to replace, such as pictures, videos, music, project
files, or data records.
Creating a backup using Windows Backup and Restore
Windows allows you to back up files using Windows Backup and Restore. You can select the level
you want to back up, from individual folders to drives. The backups are compressed to save space.
To back up:
1. Select Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Backup and Restore.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to schedule and create a backup.
NOTE: Windows includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of the computer.
You may be prompted for your permission or password for tasks such as installing software, running
utilities, or changing Windows settings. See Help and Support for more information.
To restore, see Restoring specific files using Windows Backup and Restore on page 78.
Creating backups 77