Ghacks posted a tutorial about using GFI Backup Free Edition to backup files to an external drive

Backing up data on your computer is important and most users know this. Windows features a backup utility that allows you to backup your system and files. This is a useful utility but sometimes you might find that it does not completely backup your files or an error occurs. If you need to backup your files to an external hard drive urgently and you don’t have the time to deal with errors and Microsoft Help, you need another backup program. Rest assured that you do not have to come out of pocket to get a backup program up and running quickly. You can deal with errors in Windows Backup later. Right now, you need to get files on the hard drive in a format that can be easily restored. Many backup programs have been reviewed here. This article demonstrates how to use GFI Backup Free Edition in lieu of Windows Backup.

  Using GFI Backup Free Edition to Backup Files to an External Drive