Windows Vista backup and recovery

Use the instructions in this section if Windows Vista is installed on your computer.

To protect your information, use the Backup and Restore Center to back up individual files and folders, back up your entire hard drive (select models only), or create system restore points. In case of system failure, you can use the backup files to restore the contents of your computer.

Windows Vista® provides the following advanced backup and recovery options:

Backing up individual files and folders

Backing up the entire hard drive (select models only)

Scheduling automatic backups (select models only)

Creating system restore points

Recovering individual files

Restoring the computer to a previous state

Recovering information using recovery tools

NOTE: For instructions on these procedures, go to Help and Support.

Backing up

Recovery after a system failure is as complete as your most current backup. You should create your initial backup immediately after software setup. As you add new software and data files, you should continue to back up your system on a regular basis to maintain a reasonably current backup.

Note the following when backing up:

Store personal files in the Documents folder, and back it up regularly.

Back up templates that are stored in their associated programs.

Save customized settings that appear in a window, toolbar, or menu bar by taking a screen shot of your settings. The screen shot can be a time-saver if you have to reset your preferences.

To create a screen shot:

1.Display the screen you want to save.

2.Copy the screen image:

To copy only the active window, press alt+fn+prt sc. To copy the entire screen, press fn+prt sc.

3.Open a word-processing document, and then select Edit > Paste.

116 Chapter 7 Backup and recovery