How to backup your data
While technology is improving every day, it does fail sometimes. Frequently backing up essential data is extremely important. Please see the instructions below for your operating system and backup method.
Windows - Backing up to CD
Where is My Data?
On a windows machine data specific to each user is stored in the User Profile. Typically every user has their own profile. In the Windows XP operating system user profiles are stored in the C:\Documents and Settings directory. Inside this directory are all the files specific to you, including My Documents, My Pictures and My Music.
Backing Up to CD or DVD
Not all computers on campus have DVD burners, but nearly all have CD burners. If your campus owned machine is without a CD burner, please contact the Technology Helpline and request to have one installed.
Steps for Backing up to CD or DVD
- Insert a blank CD or DVD into the drive on your computer.
- You will be prompted with a window asking you what you want to do.
- Select Open writable CD folder using Windows Explorer.
- Navigate to C:\Documents and Settings\username and click and drag any folders you would like to back up to the D:\ window. If you are backing up user information for web browsers, you will want to delete any cache files first. Different application settings are found in different locations in the user profile.
- When you are ready to burn the CD, click the Write these files to CD option.
