How to Backup a C-Drive

The C drive on almost all computers is the hard drive where the operating system, programs and data are stored. Additional hard drives can be used for backing up or storing lots of data, though you can also backup your C drive to a CD or DVD. The most important things you are backing up are files that are personal and unique to your computer.

Instructions

1. Identify the files you want to backup. Many important and personal files are contained in the "My Documents" folder. You should also scan through the C drive to look for any miscellaneous files you want to backup.

2. Put all the files you want to save into one place, separating data files into one folder and grouping other files into folders as you see fit.

3. Go into any programs that have information not saved in external files and export the data. Such programs might include an e-mail program with addresses. You will have to open the program and export the e-mail addresses and any saved e-mails. When exporting, save the files into the data folder.

4. Copy all the data to another drive. You can also copy it to a CD or DVD or online folder.

5. Get all of the serial numbers and licensing keys for your software so you can reinstall the software that's on your C drive. Find all of the software CDs and make backup copies.

Tips & Warnings

• Software is available that automatically backs up your C drive on a regular basis.

References

• Henry Amon, Information Systems, UMBC