Last week we discussed one easy way to make a backup copy of a Windows XP user profile, which typically contains most of the personal data that a user is accustomed to seeing and working with. The program we used is called “Fab’s AutoBackup.” This week we’ll discuss where to permanently store your backup and how to restore it if you need to.

If you used AutoBackup to perform a backup, a folder was created somewhere on the drive or device that you specified. If you stored your backup on the same hard drive where Windows is installed (usually your “C drive”), you’re not out of the woods yet. If your computer implodes at this point, you’re going to want to have that backup somewhere else, such as on a writable CD or DVD, a USB “thumb drive” or an external hard drive.

First, you’ll need to determine how much space your backup media will need.

Then, find the folder that AutoBackup created during the backup process. The folder will likely be named something like, “Autobackup – Owner – 04-10-08,” where “Owner” will be the user name of the profile that was backed up.

Once you locate it, right-click the folder and select “Properties” from the small menu that pops up. You’re looking for the “Size” that is listed in the “Properties” window that appears. Knowing the size limitation of your backup media (How much will your external hard drive hold? How much free space does it have? Is it enough?) will allow you to determine if the backup folder will fit on your backup media. If so, you’re in good shape. Copy or burn that entire backup folder to your backup media device.

Please note: I strongly recommend that you also put a copy of the AutoBackup installation program on your backup media so you have it handy when you need it most.

If you ever have to use AutoBackup to restore your files, the process is simple:

• Log in to Windows as the user whose profile you want to restore.
• Plug in or insert the backup media (thumb drive, external hard drive, CD-ROM) where the backup files are stored. You’ll need to know what drive letter your backup media is assigned.
• Run AutoBackup, or reinstall it from your backup media. As soon as AutoBackup starts, select “Restore Settings” from the options at the top of the program.
• Click the “Browse” button at the bottom and locate the folder that AutoBackup created to store your backup files. (Don’t browse any deeper when you see the Archive folder!)
• Select the check boxes for the items you wish to restore, such as “Windows Desktop.” Click the “Restore” button.

If all goes well, your files and settings will be restored right before your eyes.

Links: If you didn’t grab Fab’s AutoBackup last week, here’s the link you missed http://fabs.dyndns.org/

Kevin McDonald: Writer and professional computer/network administrator. He lives in Amarillo with his wife and children, and owns and operates Definition Computers. E-mail Kevin at askthegeek@definitioncomputers.com with questions you’d like to see answered in this column.

(This article was originally published in the Amarillo Independent newspaper.)