Backing up your data ensures that you don’t lose important files due to system failures, accidental deletions, or theft. Here’s how to create regular backups:

1. Connect the External Drive:

• Plug in your external hard drive to the USB port on your PC. Make sure it’s recognized by File Explorer and has enough storage space for your backups.

2. Use the Windows Backup Tool:

Windows comes with a built-in tool called File History that can back up files regularly.

• Open the Control Panel (search for it in the Start menu).
• Go to Backup and Restore (Windows 7) and select Set up backup.
• Choose the external drive as the location for your backup and click Next.
• Select Let Windows choose or Let me choose to decide what gets backed up. For most users, selecting Let Windows choose is sufficient.
• Set a backup schedule to automatically back up your files daily, weekly, or monthly.

3. Manually Copy Files:

Alternatively, you can manually copy files to your external drive.

• Open File Explorer and locate the files or folders you want to back up.
• Right-click and select Copy, then navigate to your external drive and Paste the files there.
• This method is less automated but gives you more control over what to back up.

4. Create a System Image (Advanced):

If you want to back up your entire system (including the operating system, settings, and installed apps), you can create a system image.

• Open Control Panel > Backup and Restore (Windows 7).
• Select Create a system image from the left-hand menu.
• Choose your external drive as the backup destination and follow the prompts.

5. Cloud Backup (Optional):

For added redundancy, consider using a cloud backup service like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox. These services can sync your files to the cloud, ensuring they are backed up offsite.