A reader recently asked about the best method to automatically backup their system and for an easy way to restore the backup (if needed) in the future. My response mainly consisted of recommending various pieces of third-party backup software. However, Bill E. wrote in asking why I did not mention the Backup utility included in Windows. I am glad that Bill picked-up this omission, as the Windows Backup utility provides good basic backup functionality which most users may find quite useful. The Backup utility can be found in Windows XP by going to the “Start” menu > “All Programs” > “Accessories” > “System Tools” > “Backup” and in Windows Vista by going to the “Start” button and typing “backup” in the search field then clicking “Backup and Restore Centre”. The first time you run the Backup utility it will start a wizard stepping you through the process of setting up the backup software. Thanks to Bill for writing in with this tip.