This document discusses three ways to back up computer files: using a flash drive, online backup, or an external hard drive. It describes the pros and cons of each method. For flash drive backups, the pros are speed and low cost, but flash drives have limited storage lifespan. Online backup allows access from anywhere but may require fees for large storage. External hard drives allow large backups but could be lost or damaged like any physical storage device. The document then provides step-by-step instructions for setting up backups using Dropbox as an example of online backup.

1. How to back up your
computer.
by Sharron A. Scott

2. This tutorial will illustrate THREE ways to backup files,
and the pros and cons of each.
• FLASH DRIVE
• Online
• External Hard Drive

3. Before we begin, first let’s discuss the importance of backing up your computer.
• What does it mean to back up your
computer?
• Why do people back up computers?
• What happens if you don’t back up your
computer?

4. 1. Flash Drive
• The quickest way to back up your
computer is by using a flash drive.
• Use this method if you are in a rush, or as
Extra back up (in addition to another type
of back up.)

5. Pros (Flash Drive)
• It is the quickest way.
• It is inexpensive.

6. Cons
• It is not a permanent solution.
• Flash Drives aren’t meant to last forever.

7. How to back up your files using a flash
drive.

8. 2. Backing up your files online.
• What is backing up your files online?

9. Pro’s (Backing up your files online)
• You files are stored online, so they always
accessible. You don’t have to worry about
losing an external hardrive.

10. Cons
• If you use more than 2G, then you will
incur a monthly fee.
• Some online services do not sync
automatically.
• (You will have periodically upload your
files.)

11. First, go to www.dropbox.com, and click download dropbox.

12. You will be asked to create an account.

13. Type in your information.

14. After setting up an account, dropbox should automatically download. After it downloads, drag the dropbox into your applications folder.
Double click the dropbox icon.

15. The dropbox should appear on your desktop. Drag the dropbox to your
applications folder.

16. You will be asked to select a dropbox size. If you do not have a lot of movies and music, 2G should be enough.
It is free. Select 2G.

17. Select typical setup with normal settings.

20. A green arrow will appear showing you where your dropbox icon is located.

23. Now it is time to move your files to your dropbox folder. Click the dropbox icon. From the dropdown menu,
click open dropbox folder.

24. Open, an new window. Simply drag the folders to your drop box that you would
like to protect.

27. Now your important files are safe. Go to www.dropbox.com and login to retrieve
your files.

28. External Hardrive
• What is an external hardrive?

29. Pros

30. Cons

31. How to back up your files using an external hard drive