in case of system instability or failure. Your initial and subsequent backups allow you to restore your data and settings if a failure occurs.

You can back up your information to an optional external hard drive, a network drive, or discs.

Note the following when backing up:

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

●Back up templates that are stored in their associated directories.

●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.

●When backing up to discs, number each disc after removing it from the drive.

NOTE: For detailed instructions on various backup and restore options, perform a search for these topics in Help and Support. To access Help and Support, select Start > Help and Support.

NOTE: Windows includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of your computer. You may be prompted for your permission or password for tasks such as installing software, running utilities, or changing Windows settings. Refer to Help and Support. To access Help and Support, select Start > Help and Support.

To create a backup using Windows Backup and Restore:

NOTE: The backup process may take over an hour, depending on file size and the speed of the computer.

1.Select Start > All Programs > Maintenance > Backup and Restore.

2.Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your backup, create a system image (select models only), or create system repair media (select models only).

Performing a system recovery

In case of system failure or instability, the computer provides the following tools to recover your files:

●Windows recovery tools: You can use Windows Backup and Restore to recover information you have previously backed up. You can also use Windows Startup Repair to fix problems that might prevent Windows from starting correctly.

●f11 recovery tools (select models only): You can use the f11 recovery tools to recover your original hard drive image. The image includes the Windows operating system and software programs installed at the factory.

NOTE: If you are unable to boot (start up) your computer and you cannot use the system repair media you previously created (select models only), you must purchase Windows 7 operating system media to reboot the computer and repair the operating system. For additional information, see Using Windows 8 operating system media (purchased separately) on page 130.

Performing a system recovery 135