i just added an external dvd to my system. how do i get the backup program to recognize it? 1 person needs an answerI do too

What backup program? If you mean the NTBackup, this is an old and primitive program that can't back up directly to a DVD drive. In addition, XP has no native ability to burn a DVD. You would be better off using a new third-party backup program. See this link for some suggestions: http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/page2.html#Backing_Up MS-MVP - Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!