Methods for backing up your files

You can lose files by accidentally deleting or replacing them, because of a virus or worm attack, software or hardware failure, or a complete hard disk failure. To protect your files, you can create a backup: a set of copies of the files that is stored in a different location from the original files. Windows provides tools for backing up files, programs, and system settings.

Types of backups

You should back up your personal files, programs, and system settings. You should also create restore points so that you can restore your computer to a previous state when necessary. The table below describes each of these options.

To back up	Use	When to use
Personal files such as pictures, music, and documents	Back Up Files wizard	You should regularly back up the files you create and modify. It's also a good idea to back up your files before making any system changes, such as adding new hardware, updating drivers, editing the registry, or making large changes to Windows, such as installing a service pack. For more information about backing up files, see Back up your files. The Back Up Files wizard is included with Windows Vista Home Basic, Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Business, Windows Vista Enterprise, and Windows Vista Ultimate.
Your entire computer	Windows Complete PC Backup	When you first set up your computer, you should create a Windows Complete PC Backup image, which is like taking a snapshot of the programs, system settings, and files on your computer. You can use this backup if your computer ever stops working. Although this type of backup includes your personal files, we recommend that you back up your files regularly using the Back Up Files wizard. You should also update the Windows Complete PC Backup image every six months. Windows Complete PC Backup and Restore is included with Windows Vista Business, Windows Vista Enterprise, and Windows Vista Ultimate.  SOURCE http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Methods-for-backing-up-your-files