How to Backup Photos Using Windows Vista

Backing up your photos on another type of media is a good idea. You never know when your computer could crash and you would lose your memories. With Windows Vista you have the option to manually backup your photos any time or set up automatic backups. Once photos are backed up, you can use the backed up version to restore prior versions that have become lost, damaged or changed. Follow these steps to backup your photos with Windows Vista.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Digital photos
• Computer

1. Start your computer. Click the "Start" button. From this menu, click "Control Panel." Then click on "System and Maintenance." On the last menu, select "Backup and Restore Center."

2. Select "Backup Files," and follow the steps in the Backup Wizard. You might be asked for a password or confirmation, enter these when prompted.

3. Double-check your files to make sure that they have been backed up properly. You would not want to assume that they are backed up and not be able to find them later.

4. To restore your photos once they have been backed up, return to the Backup and Restore Center (step 1). Click on "Restore files," and follow the Restore Wizard.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep all backup media in a safe location away from the computer. You might want to consider encrypting the data on your backup disk. This will keep unauthorized people from having access to your files.
• Windows Vista also gives you the option to restore files that were backed up on another computer. From the Backup and Restore Center, selected Advanced Restore. Then select Files from a Backup Made on a Different Computer, and follow the steps.
• The ability to set up automatic backups is not available with the Windows Vista Starter, or the Windows Vista Home Basic.
• Always store backup media in a fireproof location.