HP Pavilion g4-2149se Notebook PC - Manual (Page 68)

11 Backing up and restoring
Your computer includes tools provided by HP to help you safeguard your information and retrieve it if
ever needed.
Creating backups
1. Create restore media immediately after you set up the working computer.
2. As you add photos, video, music, and other personal files, create a backup of your system and
personal information.
Creating restore media to restore the original system
After you successfully set up the computer, you should create restore discs or a restore flash drive.
You will need these restore discs or flash drive to perform a system restore should the hard drive
become corrupted. A system restore reinstalls the original operating system, and then configures the
settings for the default programs.
What you need to know
● Use DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-R DL, DVD+R DL discs or a flash drive. Do not use rewriteable discs
such as CD±RW, DVD±RW, double-layer DVD±RW, and BD-RE (rewritable Blu-ray) discs.
● Be sure that the computer is connected to AC power before you begin creating the restore
media.
● The creation process can take up to an hour or more. Do not interrupt the creation process.
● Store the restore media in a safe location, separate from the computer.
Creating the restore DVDs
You will need blank, writable DVDs (DVD-R or DVD+R) to create restore DVDs. HP recommends
using blank DVD+R discs from a manufacturer you trust, because these restore DVDs are so
important. You need approximately 3 blank DVD+R discs. The program states how many discs are
needed at the beginning of the process.
To create restore DVDs:
1. Select Computer > More Applications.
2. Click Applications, and then click Create Restore DVDs.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Creating the restore image on a USB device
NOTE: Be sure AC power is connected to the computer before you begin.
Verify the exact amount of free space on your storage device before you begin the creation process.
For most models, you will need at least 8 GB of free space on the storage device. However,
depending on the drivers and software installed on your computer, you may need slightly more than 8
GB of space. HP recommends that you use a 16 GB device for best results.
58 Chapter 11 Backing up and restoring