Is there a way to automatically back up certain files -- like my email address book -- from my computer?
There are many services and software programs available that can help you automatically back up important files. For example, Apple's iDisk or Xdrive allow computer users to set up automatic backups and to store important files remotely. You can then access these files from any online computer. Your computer's operating system might also include a backup utility in the System Preferences folder. Microsoft Outlook offers an option to specifically back up your email. When in doubt, you can manually copy your email files to a CD for safe keeping.
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"I just bought a new laptop. Is there a trouble-free way to transfer my data from my old computer to my new one?"
If your two- to three-year-old computer is sluggish, instead of getting a new model, you might just need to add more memory. You can do this yourself -- see your computer maker's web site for instructions about where to install additional memory once you purchase it.