STORM2K

I should have learned after my hard drive went kaput last winter to back up my computer. But....I don't know how! Is there a tool on the computer that let's you back up? And if you need to use your back up on a new computer, does it install the programs for you or do you have to reinstall them? My computer is making noises again and i fear i might have to invest in a new one

i found out some info

well lets say this time for a new one for sure but does this person have a CD burner?
well a computer can make noises for multiple reasons
the fans are shot
or HD is acting up
or there is too much dust inside and could be causing these issues
BUGS

ok then they can burn CD's then what they need to do is put a CD in and sometimes it will prompt them how or tell them or ask them what they want to do

Are you running Windows XP? If so, they do have a tool to backup data

Here is a list of of freeware and shareware programs that may also help.

Personally, I usually manually backup my music, documents, internet bookmarks and executables of downloaded programs on an external disk drive once in while.

Thanks lurker...i knew i should have had that backup tool in my accessories/system tools. Off to try it! Wish me luck

Edit...ok that didn't work. I couldn't use any file name to back it up

Kathy you might try this site you may have to install your backup utility first. If you should loose your hardrive you will have to install
the software again then you can use your files after that.
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/usin ... uly14.mspx

I keep getting the following no matter what file name i use.

The following backup name could not be used
"D:/Backup.bkf"
Please ensure that it is a valid path, and that you have sufficient access

follow the instructions and do a ghost disk restore

I did follow the instructions...

Are you sure D is the right drive? D is usually the cd drive but maybe different on yours. Just a thought.

the guy that fixed my comp the last time time it crashed did a ghost backup and now i have a disk i can put in if it crashes again. i wish i could tell you how he did it

It's the correct drive...i'm soooo confuzzled! I was trying to do it myself but i guess i'll give in and call my computer guy.

I have two drives on my home and office computer. I back everything up on the second drive.

If it's the correct drive, than what is your C drive? You might have a partitioned drive, which could be a good thing when it comes to backing up your system.