bought a seagate usb ext drive to back up all files on lap top- dell inspiron 1100- how do I unlock windows so the drive will back up the system?1 person needs an answerI do too

You need to use an imaging program like Acronis True Image. Simply copying the Windows files will not do it.MS-MVP - Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!

You haven't told us what version of Windows is on this system. Assuming XP Home edition, the backup utility is available on the CD, but not installed by default: http://www.theeldergeek.com/backup_for_xp_home_edition.htm I'm hoping you have an OS CD from Dell. If not, you'll need to call Dell and see what your options are. "benderal" wrote in message news:053e6213-9048-42d8-8396-b5931e2fcc40...bought a seagate usb ext drive to back up all files on lap top- dell inspiron 1100- how do I unlock windows so the drive will back up the system? Bill Sanderson