This article contains information about how to use the Backup program in Windows XP and in Windows Vista to help protect data and restore files and folders on your computer.

The Backup utility in Windows XP and in Windows Vista helps you protect your data if your hard disk stops working or your files are accidentally erased. With Backup, you can create a copy of all the data on your hard disk, and then archive it on another storage device, such as a hard disk or a tape.

If the original data on your hard disk is accidentally erased, overwritten, or becomes inaccessible because of a hard disk malfunction, you can restore the data from the disk or the archived copy by using the Restore Wizard or the Automated System Recovery Wizard.

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How to use Backup to protect data and restore files and folders

Note You must have administrative or backup operator credentials on your computer to back up and restore files and folders. Backup operators and administrators can back up and restore encrypted files and folders without decrypting the files or folders.

To make sure that you have the latest information about how to use the Backup program in Windows XP and in Windows Vista, visit the following Microsoft Web site:

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