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March 11, 2002

How can I use Windows XP's NTBackup to back up files to CD-RW?

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A. XP can write data to CD-RW, but not directly from NTBackup. However, you can place backup files in the XP CD-RW write subsystem's spooler, which effectively writes the data directly to CD-RW. To add files to the spooler, perform the following steps:

  1. Start NTBackup (go to Start, Programs, Accessories, System Tools, and click Backup).
  2. Select the Backup tab.
  3. Select the files that you want to back up to CD-RW.
  4. Select File for the type of "Backup destination."
  5. Enter the following file location:

    C:\documents and settings\<user name>\Local Settings\
    Application Data\Microsoft\CD Burning\Backup.bkf


    If you aren't sure what the <user name> variable needs to be, go to a command prompt and type
    echo %userprofile% 
    to check your %userprofile% environment setting.
  6. After you specify the location of your files in the CD-RW cache, right-click the "CD write" icon in Windows Explorer and select "Write these files to CD" to write the backup files to CD-RW.

Make sure the size of your backup doesn't exceed the capacity of your storage media.

End of Article



Reader Comments
I don't have backup in my system tools

Cyndi March 23, 2003


I get through step 5 with ease but how do I get through step 6. Are there simpler or more detailed instructions for this part?

Fredia September 16, 2003


I have a pre-installed windows-xp system and I have no access to ntbackup.
I would like to save my system on a CD-RW just in case, thinking that the internal traditional 'restauration point' is not sufficiently sure.
Do you know how I can get ntbackup for my system.
Thank you for your answer.
Best regards.
Michel.

Michel February 08, 2004


Cyndi and Michel, the backup utility is on your Windows XP CD Rom in the VALUEADD\MSFT\NTBACKUP folder. You'll find instructions on how to install it here. http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=302894

hopeless March 25, 2004


Ntbackup is on the windows XP cd, it just doesn't install with home, you should be able to search for it. Also if you use something like DirectCD you can format some cds for backup and then it will use these cds as a normal disk and write directly to them through the backup program.

Mick March 29, 2004


I don't have any of the folders, after the user name, indicated in this path:

C:\documents and settings\<user name>\Local SettingsApplication Data\Microsoft\CD Burning\Backup.bkf

I am using XP Home edition and it was pre-installed on a Sony Vaio Desktop.

Dra April 04, 2004


I have Windows XP Home Edition pre-installed on my system and have no Windows CD included in the CD's that came with my system. I want to do a system backup on a CD, but I seem to have no access to a Windows Backup program of any kind. What can I do? Should I purchase and install a Windows XP Home Edition from a retailer so I have a Windows CD in case of a system crash? Thanks for helping!

Steve April 18, 2004


I ran into same problem with XP Home edition. Home does not come with Backup. Go here to get directions:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;302894&Product=winxp

It's in the ADDVALUE on your XP Home Disc.:

Rob Gerwing June 15, 2004


Use http://www.firestreamer.com to back up to DVD and DV video with ntbackup

Anonymous User October 31, 2004


I encountered some problems with steps 4 and5,as the field for"backup destination"remained inactive,and I couldn't find anywhere to enter "file location"Kindly help.

Anonymous User January 07, 2005 (Article Rating: )


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