How-To Guide: Backing Up Important Files

Q. I just lost all of my files when a technician came to fix my computer. I am very upset. Why did this happen?

A. It is the responsibility of users to back-up valuable files on CyberStart computers on a regular basis. It is too late to do so once data files have been corrupted or deleted. A technician may be able to tell you what happened to cause your system failure and may get your computer running again but he or she will likely not be able to recover your data files.

Computers are subject to lots of different types of problems which can cause data loss. Viruses can destroy data, chips can go bad, hard drives can crash, memory can fail, and the list goes on and on. A computer disaster can wipe out your center budget, your lesson plans, your class records, or the records you need for tomorrow’s Keystone STARS review. Backing up the data on your computer is the smart thing to do.

How often should you back up your data files?  You should set a schedule to back up your files at least weekly but if today’s work is very important, back it up TODAY.

How should you back up your data? You do not need to back up your programs (Word, Excel, Outlook, KidPix, etc.) as these are included in the restore image which the technician will use to re-image your PC if necessary.

You do need to back up the files you create if they are important and would be impossible or time-consuming to recreate. There are many ways to back up data. You can do a “Save As” with any open file and save it to another location such as a floppy disk or, if you have a writable CD-ROM drive, to a CD. You can also email the file(s) to yourself or save it to a Jump or Flash Drive which can be carried with you on a key ring. Windows also contains an easy-to-use Backup program located under Programs, Accessories, System Tools. To use this program to back up your selected files, follow the steps in this month’s Quick Clicks.

 

[Posted on September 2, 2005]