Backup question

[xChase]

I have a scheduled weekly computer backup to my hard drive, but how do I backup one or a few folders to the drive, every day? I'm sure it's simple, I just can't find out how. Thanks.

 

[marsmimar]

Once you select your backup destination (DVD, external HD, etc.) you should see your two options. "Let Windows choose" or "Let me choose". If you select "Let me choose", you will be prompted to click Next and on the next screen you can choose the folders you wish to backup.

You will need to individually select or deselect them by checking the box next to each folder. Click on the little triangle to the left of each drive letter or folder to expand it and select sub-folders. There is also an option at the bottom to create a System Image. Click "Next" when finished.

By default Windows 7 runs a backup weekly. You can click on "Change schedule" and choose between a weekly, daily, or monthly backup.
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[xChase]

I want two different schedules, though. One for my entire computer, another for just a few very important folders. Is that possible?

 

[marsmimar]

I don't believe that is possible with the Windows 7 backup utility. According to a Microsoft Program Manager:

Windows 7 backup supports one backup schedule for both data and disk image.

Source

The last posting was on 5/13/11 and people are still complaining about not being able to schedule multiple backups. In the alternative you might consider using other free backup/imaging utilities to supplement the Windows 7 utility. Just as an example, schedule Macrium free for a weekly backup and Paragon for your daily backups.

Macrium Reflect FREE Edition - Information and download

Free Backup Software: Paragon Backup & Recovery (Advanced) Free Edition - Overview

 

[xChase]

I just downloaded Paragon 64-bit, but I can't figure out how to back up just a few files, it only has the option for the entire disk. Ty.

 

[marsmimar]

To be honest, I've only used Paragon for full system imaging (backing up everything on the HD including OS, custom settings, etc.) So I'm not too familiar with what it can or cannot do. You could set Windows 7 for the daily backup of selected files/folders since you know it has that option and use Paragon (or Macrium) for the weekly full backup.

Edit: I think you can use the Paragon File Transfer Wizard to select the files/folders you want to copy.

Paragon Backup & Recovery (Advanced) Free Edition - Product Tour

 

[mjf]

I believe you need the paid version of Macrium to backup specific folders. The free version I use only backs up partitions.
You could try third party backup (free) programs like
Cobian Backup
Commodo Backup
GFI Backup
etc.

Note these are file/folder backups like the Windows backup but a bit more flexible if you need that. Imaging is different of course.