Hi Maggie,
If you are using CD-Rs and not a CD-RW you will not be able to "add/append" files to it. That's just the nature of the beast. It would be best if you have a DVD writer. Preferably a dual-layer type. That's 8 gigabytes of storage instead of 800 megabytes (a factor of 10).
You should purchase a good backup application like Acronis. At least that's what I use. When to back up depends on how often you use the computer and what you feel comfortable with. Backups are like insurance policies that provide a 'comfort' feeling. It's good to have when you need it most. I try to backup once a week. Some will backup every day.
There are total backups and incremental backups. Incremental backups take less time and space but can be a hassle since a full recovery would require restoring the full backup and then restoring each incremental backup one at a time.
Another consideration would be where to put the backups. Although some might disagree, I use an external harddrive to backup. And since I have a large drive, I do a full backup each time. You might put a full backup on the external and do incrementals on a DVD. It all depends on how you like it and feel comfortable doing.
Through your profile I see you have a laptop. I would suggest you go the external harddrive route. Less overall hassle.
and life goes on...
Jack
my computer. I've been intending to back up my computer. I have done things like pictures, but not everything. how do I add things after I have,say, backed up some pictures. I tried to add more pics to the same cd, but it will not do it. Can it be done? Is there a trick to this? I've been intending to back up my whole system, but I've been too lazy, I guess. Once I do this, how often should it be done? I've learned so much from all of you, now it's time to learn the proper way to backup, and keep it done. Any advice would be appriciated. Thanks....Maggie
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