Back Up My Files

[zingo1327]

Hi guys. This is probably a stupid question but how do I back up my computer operating system and files?
Do I simply connect a USB stick (E Drive) and drag C Drive to it or is it more complicated
Thanks in advance

[SlackAlice]

What O/S and if Windows which one?

[Flonska]

Whilst a "copy" would work, there are potential flaws and you may lose some of the data:- Read this and you will see whyt a "copy" is not really recommended.

https://askleo.com/cant_i_just_copy_everything_instead_of_using_a_backup_program/

On Windows pc, usually the backup function is located in Control Panel / System and Security

[CrapAtCryptics]

You do not back up your operating system as you should have the original disk to reload if necessary. As far as files go use Windows backup to save pictures, videos, documents, game files that are personal. if you use windows 10 just type in windows backup in the "ask me anything" box and add the folders where you keep your stuff and choose the destination.

[Guilbert53]

>>>You do not back up your operating system as you should have the original disk to reload if necessary.

What terrible advice.

I back up my Operating System (and all the programs I have installed) every so often. I use a program called Macrium Reflect Free that basically backs up your operating system and all the other files on your PC to an external hard drive.

Then if I want to reinstall Windows I just reinstall from this backup (which only takes 10 minutes) rather than having to do a fresh Windows install that can take hours by the time you have downloaded all the Windows Updates and reinstalled all your programs.

Making a backup of your whole disk including your operating system (as an image) is an excellent idea in case you get a major virus or are locked out by ransomware.

Note to original poster. You CAN drag all your personal files from your hard disk to a USB stick and that is a simple way of making a backup.

However you CANT drag your operating system from your hard disk to a USB stick as there are hidden files and system files that wont copy across so it will be a mess.

You HAVE to use a proper backup program to backup your operating system and Macrium Reflect Free is just one that is available.

[zingo1327]

Thanks guys. My operating system is windows xp and I do have the disk but the last time I had to use it ,it took hours to transfer it to the hard drive.I had a virus attack and had to scrub my entire computer which meant reinstalling everything. I was hoping if that ever happened again I could simply pop in a usb stick and transfer everything in one simple step.