How to Backup XP to a CD

Create CD backups to protect against data loss.

The Microsoft Windows XP operating system has an internal backup tool that allows users to create a backup of the system settings to a CD. This utility is a convenient way to create a backup and take snapshots of the hard drive in case of an emergency. This saves the settings and files in case the hard drive fails or the system no longer boots. Backups are a crucial part of disaster recovery for a computer.

Things You'll Need

• Blank CD

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button and select "All Programs." Click "Accessories" and then click "System Tools." Click "Backup" to open the backup utility.

2. Insert the blank CD into the computer's disc drive. Click "Next" in the opening Backup wizard window. Choose "Back up files and settings" from the list of options and click "Next."

3. Select "Let me choose what to back up" and click "Next." The next window displays all directories and files saved to the hard drive. Check each directory you want to save. If you want to save all folders, click "My Computer." Click the "Next" button.

4. Click the "Browse" button to select the CD burner location. Click "OK" to save the settings and click "Next." Review the saved settings and then click "Finish." It may take several minutes for the backup to complete. Eject and remove the backup CD from the disc drive.

References

• Microsoft: Windows XP Backup Made Easy
• Microsoft: How to use the Backup utility to back up files and folders in Windows XP Home Edition

Resources

• Microsoft: Windows XP Solution Center