Keep your files safe - back up

I was tempted to call this post, "Back up, Back up for Jesus" but thought better of it. When it comes to Jesus, we should never retreat but always press on toward the prize set before us.

IMPORTANT: If Internet Explorer version 5, 6, 7, or 8 is installed on your PC--even if you normally use a different browser-- a critical security patch was released January 21, 2010. Go to the Microsoft Update Website (http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=148275) to make sure your PC has been patched.

Let's say you or someone else in your family received a new computer this Christmas. Maybe you are still using a 4 year old computer (like I am right now). Either way, there is probably a bunch of stuff on it you would rather not lose: photos, letters, e-mail, homework, etc.

You may not realize this but the hard drive in your computer will fail at some point. I don't mean that it will just disappoint you or forget your birthday or anything like that. Some day, the hard drive will crash and take some or all your important personal files with it. Are you scared yet? Scared enough to do something about it? Good. That's what I'm here for.

It's time to back up your files. Let's face it. Many people have written reviews and step-by-step instructions to walk you through the process. Rather than borrowing from others, I'm just going to point you to the best backup resource for all versions of Windows (XP, Vista, and 7):  http://www.microsoft.com/protect/data/backup/about.aspx

Here you will find tips on what, how, and where you should back up your important files. Let me add some other tips as well:

1. If your computer came with a set of Recovery CDs or DVDs, find them and store them with your file back ups.
2. If your computer did NOT come with Recovery discs, you will likely have a utilty on your computer to create (burn) them using your own blank discs. Look in the documentation or Help system on your computer. Make the discs now. I'll wait....
3. If your computer suddenly is unable to start (boot) into Windows, don't panic. Also, don't immediately initiate a recovery that will return your computer to factory condition (thus losing all your files). The problem may be easy to fix (Windows can even help walk you through the steps) or the drive may have failed. Either way, the files on the drive may be recoverable by someone who knows what they are doing.

If you have questions or need help, just ask me. I will do what I can.

Stephen

Sola Gratia - Sola Fide - Sola Scriptura