Setting Up a System Backup in Windows 7

To set up a backup in Windows 7, open up Computer, right-click on your local drive and select Properties. Then click on the Tools tab and click the Back up now button.



Click Set up backup.



Choose your backup location. An external backup location is recommended; a network location is an excellent option (you might need a password to do so).



Choose if you want Windows to decide what to backup, or if you want to do it yourself.



If you decide to do it yourself, choose what you want to back up.



Review your settings. The bottom of this dialogue box also allows you to set a scheduled backup day and time (circled).



Set your schedule. After the schedule is set, click Save Settings and Run Backup. Be aware this could take over an hour, particularly if this is your first backup.