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Quick Guide to Backup and Recovery

Windows®.  Life without Walls™. HP recommends Windows 7.
Content starts here Quick Guide to Backup and Recovery

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Introduction

Your PC’s hard drive is filled with photos, music, home movies and important files you want to keep for a long time. If your hard drive were to crash today—could you recover those files quickly and easily? If the answer is no, you need to start backing up your files on a regular basis. The good news is, with proper backup, you can recover your valuable files in minutes and it can be as easy as plugging a cord in the wall.

What needs to be backed up?

What needs to be backed up? A full backup of your PC’s hard drive is recommended to guarantee your operating system and all your important files are protected. A partial backup will protect only selected files and applications. Before deciding on partial backup, keep in mind all the irreplaceable information stored on your hard drive. A full backup solution provides the most comprehensive way to protect data on your PC, though there are situations where partial backup is sufficient, such as when you are working exclusively on one large project.


How often to back up your files

How often to back up your files Full system backups can be automated to run daily, weekly or continuously. Or you can do a complete backup instantly just by plugging in a SimpleSave drive. The frequency should depend on how often you are adding or changing important files on your hard drive. A good rule of thumb? Back up your files once a week.


Choosing the right backup products

Choosing the right backup products HP has backup options that range from simple plug-and-backup to convenient wireless options and other backup solutions to fit your specific needs.


How to back up your PC

If you choose the HP SimpleSave drive, all you have to do is plug in the USB cord and you’ll automatically be backed up. If you decide to go with one of the other options to back up your PC, it’s still easy using the Automatic File Backup software included with Windows Vista. The set up “wizard” walks you through the process of creating and scheduling regular backups with your preferred storage destination—hard drive, DVD writer or online archive. Some backup devices, such as the HP Media Vault and the HP SimpleSave, also come with their own backup software, and there are additional backup programs available on the market. Consult the user’s manual to see the recommended software for your backup device.

*Wireless access point required for wireless connectivity and is not included. Internet use requires separately purchased Internet service contract. Media service subscriptions may be required. Certain Windows Vista product features require advanced or additional hardware.
Services subject to change without notice. Not all services may be available at time of product launch.
This system may require upgraded and/or separately purchased hardware and/or a DVD drive to install the Windows 7 software and take full advantage of Windows 7 functionality. See
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/ for details.