Computer Back-up Device

[Buzzardhut]

I just got a 2 gig stick for $19.00
I saw a 4 gig too
I get most of my products from New Egg (http://www.newegg.com/)

[WhiteOleander]

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

Ok. I'd rather buy one. I'm on dialup and I really don't like to download much. I just don't want to pay more for DSL.:)

If you know any good recomendations, I'd appreciate it. Otherwise, I will search it out myself. Thanks.:hat

[Kung]

IMHO, some of the best software is Acronis True Image Home (www.acronis.com). A little expensive ($50) but well worth it. :)

[WhiteOleander]

Thanks Kung. I will most likely buy it. I'd rather buy something someone has used and can recommend than buy cold and end up unhappy.

I'll be back if I have trouble.:)

[rmemdv]

For those who are not familiar with the location of the data they want to protect the best solution is an external usb hard drive with full backup of the internal drive.

This removes any concern that you have missed something.

Acronis is a great piece of software, I use it for the servers I administer at work. You can have it schedule automatic daily backups. So it is a set it and forget it event.

The key with all backups is to DO IT TO A SET SCHEDULE.

I do the same with the systems I use at home as well.

So the bottom line for non techie types is to find the easiest and most reliable solution.
Go with USB HDD with automatic backups (whether it's the software that came with the usb drive or 3rd party like Ghost or Acronis). You won't be sorry!

v/r
ken

[Kung]

Good post. :thumbup If you don't have the money to pop for a full drive, you can use a USB drive, but he's right - external USB HDD is best.