An OS usually integrates the data backup feature, so it isn't necessary to install a specialized tool. For Windows XP, in order to backup/ restore data from your computer, go to Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools and Backup and follow the onscreen instructions from the wizard based interface. For Windows 7/ Vista, go to Start, Control Panel, System and Maintenance, Backup and Restore. If you don't trust Microsoft's backup tool, you should know that there are several applications able to perform this operation. Backup Maker and Comodo Backup are two such tools you can rely on.