Back Up Files on a Laptop

Backing up files on your laptop is important. In the event of hard drive failure or you lose your laptop it will give you a copy of all your files.There is a backup application in Windows, that offers a more solid on going backup routine under accessories> system tools, but this is somewhat technical and is best for managing a more robust ongoing backup routine. The following steps are quick and easy for not so large files that never change.

Steps

  1. Insert a blank DVD into your laptop's DVD Writer.
  2. Open up your DVD burning package. Any software will do.
  3. Select Data DVD as your disc type, a window will appear.
  4. Drag all your important files (pictures, documents, presentations, emails etc.) onto the disc until it is full. You may need more than one disc to fit all your files on.
  5. Insert a suitable title like Backup 1/1/2010 and then press burn.
  6. Repeat these steps again using another disc until all the files you want have been backed up.
  7. Label the discs and store them somewhere safe.

Tips

  • You may wish to make copies of your disc(s) and distribute them in different places (ie. shed, friend's house etc.) so that if you have a house fire you will still have your files.
  • If your laptop doesn't have a Disk drive then you could use a USB Flash drive and simply drag and drop your files onto that.
  • Back up at least once a month.
  • Don't buy the cheapest discs you can find. The 30 for £1 offer won't sound so great when your disc(s) are broken when you need them.

Warnings

  • Backup at least once a month to ensure all your latest files are included on your disc.
  • Store your disc(s) away from where your laptop is stored. If your laptop is destroyed in a flood or house fire your disc(s) will probably be destroyed as well.

Things You'll Need

  • Blank CD or DVD
  • Laptop with DVD Writer
  • Important files

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