By syncing your phone with your computer, you can easily access your music, photos, contacts, and e-mail—all your important files—whether you’re sitting in your office or in your doctor’s waiting room. Because you’re always updating your files, it’s a good idea to synchronize regularly. There are really only three steps required to sync your phone with your computer.

Before you begin, grab the USB cable that came with your phone—you’ll use it to download the software to sync content between your phone and your computer. Depending on which operating system you’re using on your computer, you’ll have to install Microsoft ActiveSync for Windows XP or earlier, or Windows Mobile Device Center for Windows Vista or Windows 7.