How to Create a Recovery CD for Windows XP Pro SP2

Windows XP Pro SP2 makes creating a recovery CD and a backup of your data files a task that can be done at any time you desire. Having a recovery CD on hand is especially important when installing new software or devices that may corrupt files or lock the operating system because of incompatibility. To create these files, you computer will also need a floppy drive and a formatted floppy disk.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Burnable CD Drive Floppy drive Formatted floppy disk Blank CDs

1. Attach the floppy drive to your computer, if you do not have a floppy drive installed. Most modern floppy drives are connected through the USB port on the computer.

2. Place a clean, formatted floppy disk in the drive.

3. Have a supply of blank CDs; the number you will need will depend on how much data you have to back up.

4. Place a blank CD in the CD-Rom drive.

5. Click on "Start." Click on "All Programs." Click on "Accessories" and then "System Tools."

6. Click on "Back-up" from the text menu box that opens.

7. Click "Next" when the back-up wizard opens.

8. Click the radio button next to Back up Files and Settings. Click "Next."

9. Click the radio button next to "All information on this computer." Click "Next."

10. Make sure the CD drive is chosen for the backup. If a different device is listed, such as a flash or thumb drive, use the drop down arrow to select the correct drive.

11. Choose a name for your backup. Using the date as part of the file name will let you keep track of which system recovery disk is the most current.

12. Click "Next" after you have completed the necessary changes.

13. Click "Finish" on the next screen. The recovery back up will begin. Follow the instructions on the screen for inserting new blank CDs.

14. Store the CDs and the floppy disk together in a safe place until needed for a system recovery.

Tips & Warnings

• You should perform this job after major system updates and before installing any hardware or software that may not be compatible with Windows XP SP2.