Computer Back-up Device

[Enoch]

Thanks everyone.

Memory stick is what I was thinking of. I don't think I want to use the Ghost because I don't want to have to put in another HD. And I also don't want to use the external HD's.

But, from what I understand from Enoch, the memory stick will not back up my entire HD? I guess I could just back up some of the files.

Largest current one I can find is 8GB and Sony has one that stores 32GB of data that is soon to be out unless it is and I don't see it. :/

[Revelator]

I'm using a Maxtor external drive but with online backups becoming more affordable it might be worth adding something like Mozy (http://mozy.com/?ref=3f9a896b) to the mix. Unlimited space for $4.95/mo and automatic uploads of your changed data as you schedule them.

[Kung]

Thanks everyone.

Memory stick is what I was thinking of. I don't think I want to use the Ghost because I don't want to have to put in another HD. And I also don't want to use the external HD's.

But, from what I understand from Enoch, the memory stick will not back up my entire HD? I guess I could just back up some of the files.

It depends upon what you're trying to back up. It's not really necessary to back up your ENTIRE hard drive - just the key locations, such as the contents of your "My Documents" folder, your favorites, your emails, etc.

Depending upon that (and most DEFINITELY depending upon if you have music - I just back mine up to an external hard drive, and back THAT up to DVD occasionally), you could use a 2 or 4Gb memory stick to do it. :) But they normally don't come with backup software, let alone automated backup software.

If you want some backup software, you can either use the integrated backup software that comes with XP (Start --> Run, type ntbackup.exe), or download Cobian Backup (search for it on Google).

[Kung]

I'm using a Maxtor external drive but with online backups becoming more affordable it might be worth adding something like Mozy (http://mozy.com/?ref=3f9a896b) to the mix. Unlimited space for $4.95/mo and automatic uploads of your changed data as you schedule them.

That heavily depends upon one's 'net access. I would LOVE that, but living on the sticks as I do, it's not feasible.

[WhiteOleander]

Thanks so much.

I think I will just use the memory sticks. You're right. I really don't need to backup my whole HD. I don't download music much. Just don't want to lose my email addresses, my favorites, and my other "dumb stuff" I have saved.

You were all a great help.

:)

[Kung]

Now, that being said, if you want help determining where to find the information that you want to back up, and such, let us know.

[BloodoftheLamb]

Would the file and settings transfer wiz help her?

[Kung]

I suppose you could use that, though that's not really what it's intended for. You'd be better off with an actual backup program.

[WhiteOleander]

I suppose you could use that, though that's not really what it's intended for. You'd be better off with an actual backup program.

HaHa. Well I guess my ignorance is really showing. I figured I could use the program you mentioned that came with XP. But, I guess I don't know what I don't know.;)

[Kung]

Well....you COULD use it. I didn't mean to imply that you couldn't....just that it's not optimal. :) The Files and Settings Transfer Wizard is just that....not a backup program (although you could use it as such).

As a matter of fact, there IS a backup program (Start --> Run, type ntbackup) that comes with Windows XP. Thing is, it doesn't 'do the work' for you - for instance, it won't go export settings from Outlook, from IE, etc., whereas some customizable (and most of them paid) backup programs will do all of that for you.

Long story short, if you want *all* the work to be done for you, best to purchase (or download, if there's a free one) a 3rd party backup program. If you don't mind following some directions, however, we can tell you where the actual files for Outlook reside, for instance; and then you can tell the backup program to backup those folders.

Clear as mud? :p