How to back up your computer

Backing up your computer isn't hard to do, it doesn't take a lot of time and barely any effort, but many people don’t do it, why? Because they’re lazy! Even after you've lost all your important files, data, and photos it still doesn't get done, in light of the CTB locker virus outbreak, here are some simple steps to show you how to back up your computer…

1. To start a backup:

- Click the Start button
- Click Control Panel
- Click System and Maintenance
- Click Backup and Restore Center
- Click Back up files

2. Choose a safe place to store your files:

- CD or DVD. This option might require you to use multiple discs, but it all depends on the amount of information you have. Luckily if you do choose this option it will be incredibly cheap and CDs and DVDs can be bought at majority of stores.

- Hard Drive. This option means you will be saving your files to a second hard drive installed on your computer or to an extra external hard drive. This option is more expensive than using CDs or DVDs, but a hard drive can store a lot more files.

-  A Network Location. You have the option to back up your files to a shared folder, but that’s only if you have a home network. If you want to backup files at work, you might be able to save them to your work network.

3. Decide what you want to save:

- Files that you update and use very frequently.

- Files that your computer uses to run, they’re called system files and are updated occasionally.

4. Schedule regular backups:

- Decide how often you would like you backup your computer, whether it be once a month or once a year.

- For your work computer you may want to schedule weekly backups.

5. In case of an emergency:

- If there is ever an emergency and something happens, you can just go to Backup and Restore Center -> Click Restore files.

- Choose the date of the backup -> find and add all the files and folders you want to restore -> choose where you would like the save the files -> click Start restore.

Losing all your data because of an unexpected hard drive crash or a vicious virus like the CTB locker virus outbreak is not uncommon. In the past it used to be complicated, now it is quicker and easier than ever, so for your well-being and peace of mind, make sure to back up your computer today!

For all your IT needs, contact The Computer Guyz in Cape Town or Centurion. We can offer you a wide variety or services from IT support and repairs to website design and hosting.

Written By: Christine Romans

CopyWriter at The Computer Guyz Cape Town