Microsoft® Manual of Style, Fourth Edition

B

back end

Do not use if you can correctly use a more specific term such as server, operating system, database, or network instead.

back up, backup

Two words as a verb, one word as an adjective or as a noun.

Microsoft style

Back up the files before you turn off the computer.

Save the backup copies on a disk.

backbone

Usually, a large, fast network that connects other networks.

Do not use in content for a general audience. You do not have to define backbone in content for a technical audience.

backlight

One word. Refers to the lighting that makes a flat panel display, such as that on a laptop computer, easier to read.

backspace

All right to use as a verb.

backtab

Do not use. If you have to explain the procedure, refer to the Shift+Tab key combination.

backward ...