How to Do Backups in XP

Access the Windows XP backup tool from the program's installation disk.

Regular backing up of your personal files and program settings can avoid a data loss catastrophe if your computer system fails. The latest Microsoft Windows computer operating systems come with an automatic backup tool that makes saving essential data straightforward. Older operating systems such as Microsoft Windows XP don't include this feature in the computer "Control Panel" but you can access it from the original Windows XP installation CD.

Things You'll Need

• External hard drive, DVD or CD data disk.
• Windows XP installation disk.

Instructions

1. Insert the Windows XP installation CD into the CD/DVD drive on the computer. Click "Exit" in the pop-up window to stop the automatic installation program from launching.

2. Double-click on the CD drive in the "My Computer" folder on your computer. Access this from the desktop screen or "Start" menu. This displays the contents of the Windows XP CD.

3. Double-click the "Value Add" folder and then the "Msft" folder. Double-click the "Ntbackup" folder. Double-click the "Ntbackup.msi" file to install the Backup tool. When prompted, click "Finish" in the dialog box. Eject the Windows XP CD from the disk drive.

4. Restart the computer. You must log on as an administrator to run the backup utility. The main computer user is the administrator on most home computers. If prompted, enter your usual password at the Windows log-in screen.

5. Insert the CD or DVD data disk, or connect the external hard drive, that you'll need to save the backup file.

6. Click "Start" on the desktop taskbar and then click "Run." Type "ntbackup.exe" in the "Open" box. Click "OK."

7. Click "Advanced Mode" and then click the "Backup" tab. Find the "Job" menu and click "New."

8. Click the check-boxes beside the drives you want to backup. To select specific folders or files on a drive, click the "+" beside the drive to display the files and folders on the drive. Select each file and folder by clicking the check-box beside the folder or file pane.

9. Click the "System State" check-box under "My Computer." This backs up all essential system settings and information.

10. Select the save location for the backup file from the "Backup Destination" list. This might include an external hard drive, removable media such as a DVD data disk or a network location.

11. Click "OK" and then "Start Backup." This launches the backup process. Wait for the backup to complete. Windows XP displays a progress box during the backup. Click "Close" followed by "Exit."

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have the original Windows XP installation disk then you might be able to load the backup tool from the computer's boot menu. Check the help documentation that came with your computer for instructions.

References

• Microsoft Support: How to Use the Backup Utility to Backup Files and Folders in Windows XP Home Edition

Resources

• Microsoft Windows XP: Help & How-To