There are all kinds of ways that you can backup, but let's take a look at doing a computer backup using Windows XP.

Windows XP is the operating system that is touted as having huge improvement and functionality for the operator and in many cases this is true. For example, it offers many more utilities than Windows 98 did, and great backup functionality is one of them.

To use the XP Backup Utility is very easy. Go to All Programs then Accessories then System Tools. Now choose Backup. The wizard opens. Make sure the there is a check mark in the Always Start in Wizard Mode checkbox.

Next choose Backup Files and Settings. Your other option is to choose Restore Your Data. In the event that you need to retrieve your data you will have to open the Backup Wizard and select this option. Click Next.

Now you get to choose to either:

• Backup your documents and settings
• Backup everyone's documents and settings
• Backup all the information on this computer [recommended for the first time]
• Custom choose what to backup - this is what you would choose if you have specific files you wish to backup.

Once you've made your selection choose Next. The next screen should list options recognized as locations to backup to. For example, if you have an external hard drive you would have plugged it in before starting and the wizard would recognize it as a location to backup to.

Next you see a screen that says "Completing the Backup or Restore Wizard." It gives you all the information about the file name, location, and description, which tells you the date and time. Now click Finish and the backup will begin. A new screen will appear that shows you the status of the backup and how much time has passed, as well as how many files have been copied.

Microsoft has tried to make a variety of utilities more accessible with the XP operating system and the backup feature is just one of those utilities. It is so simple to use, there really is no reason why one should not backup their computer. And now that we've walked you through all the steps, backing up all of your hard work and photos of your family vacation should be easier than ever.

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