What is a critical step before performing system recovery?

Backing up important files is a critical step before performing system recovery because it ensures that any data that may be at risk during the recovery process is preserved. System recovery often involves restoring the operating system to its factory settings or reinstalling the OS, which typically leads to the loss of existing data, applications, and settings. By backing up important files, users can safeguard their personal documents, photos, and other essential information, allowing them to restore these files after the recovery process is completed. This step minimizes the risk of data loss and provides peace of mind, knowing that critical information will not be permanently erased.

Other steps, while they may be important in the context of preparing for recovery, such as removing external devices or adjusting hardware configurations, do not directly address the need to protect valuable data. Installing a secondary operating system might be relevant in specific scenarios, but it does not play a crucial role in the immediate context of a recovery operation.