How to Do a Complete Backup of Windows XP

Back up your entire XP system.

The Windows XP operating system has an internal backup utility that allows you to completely back up all your system and personal files. This is beneficial in case your hard drive crashes or you are unable to boot your system. Use this backup to restore files, recover system folders or replace corrupted registry files. The backup utility supports backing up to the hard drive or external media such as a CD or DVD.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Click the Windows XP "Start" button and select "Run." Enter "ntbackup" into the text box and press "Enter." This opens the backup utility.

2. Select "Let me choose what to backup" and click the "Next" button. Check the box labeled "My Computer." This selects all files and folders on your XP computer. You can also choose specific files and folders.

3. Click the "Next" button. Click the "Browse" button to select a location for the backup files. This can be the local hard drive or a disc such as a writable DVD or CD. Click "OK" and then click "Next" again.

4. Click "Finish" to create your backup. It takes several minutes to copy the entire XP hard drive.

References

• Microsoft: Windows XP Backup Made Easy