Answer:
When a failure occurs, applications and data can be lost, often irretrievably. The one way to really protect your important data is to create periodic copies (backups). Backups should be tailored to your particular needs. Today, most computers ship with system restore discs that can return a PC to its original factory state. Restore discs are handy, but they do not account for any new programs or data that may have been on the system. To really protect yourself, it’s important to perform your own periodic backups to CDs or DVDs.
If you’re a casual PC user running a few basic applications, you probably don’t need a full backup. Rather, keep the system restore discs on hand (along with the installation discs for other applications you use such as Microsoft Office) and just back up your data files (such as Word documents or downloaded image files). However, if you’re a busy PC user who runs lots of applications, occasionally take the time for a full backup and then supplement that full backup with copies of your current data files. The rule of thumb is simple: If you can’t live without it, back it up.
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