What is the first procedure to follow before backing up new user profiles to a tape backup device?

Before backing up new user profiles to a tape backup device, the first procedure to follow is change management. Change management involves a structured approach to managing changes to systems and processes in an IT environment. This includes assessing the impact of changes, documenting them, and ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and in agreement with the changes being enacted.

In the context of backing up user profiles, implementing change management ensures that there is a well-defined process for the backup operation. This includes understanding what data will be backed up, who is responsible for the backup, and how it will be done, which minimizes risks during the backup process and potential data loss. Change management also helps in maintaining compliance and aligning the backup procedure with organizational policies.

Other options, while they may relate to aspects of backup and data management, do not serve as the first step in this context. End-user acceptance focuses on ensuring that users are satisfied with the new profiles and applications, which typically comes after the backup process. File History pertains to Windows-specific backup capabilities that help in restoring files but does not encompass the broader management considerations necessary before initiating a backup. Backup testing is important to ensure that the backup process works as intended, but it is a subsequent step that occurs after the backup strategy has been