How to schedule a task to occur automatically

Windows XP enables you to set up a schedule of programs that can be run by Windows automatically. This is a feature that you could use to schedule routine tasks like your Disk Cleanup or Backing up your files. To set up your task scheduler:

• Click on Start and go to Programs. Select Accessories and go to System tools.
• Click on Scheduled Tasks. In the window that opens up, Double-click on Add Scheduled Task to start the Scheduled Task Wizard.
• Click on Next on the Welcome Page to continue.
• Click on the program you want to schedule .You can use the Browse option to find the program. Click on Next.

• You can even change the name of the task by typing the new name in the text-box. Now enable the option relevant to the time-frame you want the task performed in. Click on Next.

• You can choose to run the program according to your requirements i.e. daily, weekly or monthly .You must also key in the time or use the scroll buttons to specify the time of day to run the program .Also click on the boxes corresponding to the day or days you want to run the program. Click on the Next button.

• In order to run your program, you must enter a username and password for your Task Scheduler. Now click on Next.

• You can now schedule your new task by clicking on Finish.

Note: If you want your program to use any other settings other than the default, verify with the Help file for the program to see if it supports changing settings in a scheduled task.