Backing up Operating System

[rock_king_my]

Hi.

What software can I use to back up my O/S (XP SP3)?

I just got my laptop repaired at the local pc shop & I wanna back up my XP on (say) DVDR.

If my laptop messes up again, I can re-install it with ease myself.

Cheers!

[MilesAhead]

http://www.thefreecountry.com/utilities/backupandimage.shtml

I'd recommend an external USB drive or docking station instead of DVDR for the backup data. But if all you have is the OS then you may fit it on a few discs. I think HD is more dependable though. The other approach is to create an install DVD with just your OS and a few programs on it but it usually takes some trial and error to get it right. Backup image is much simpler.

I use Macrium Reflect myself but there are several good imaging utilities both free and paid. The most important thing is your disk controller support. If the rescue CD doesn't natively support your disc controller if your system doesn't boot then it makes it a chore to get back on the air. Try booting the boot CD and see if it can see your HD and optical drive from the restore program. If so then you should be good to go with that app.

[rock_king_my]

Viruses / Spyware

Hi.

Is it true that whatever software I use to back up, any Viruses / Spyware in my O/S will also follow along in my backup?

[MilesAhead]

It makes an image of the system. Whatever is there will be put back, except for restore points. Macrium doesn't back those up.

You can search their support forum to get more info:

http://www.macrium.com/support.asp

[admin]

I'm using Macrium Reflect at the moment (the free edition), and I must say it's an excellent tool, very easy to use and quite fast as well. Seriously considering getting the full version so as to have incremental backups.

[MilesAhead]

Another big advantage of Macrium paid version is a licensed copy of WinPE. Comes in handy if you have some hardware you want supported by the boot CD that requires a Windows driver. For example, USB 3.0 isn't supported by the Linux boot CD yet. But you could load it manually after WinPE boot if you have USB 3.0 docking stations or external drives.

[Banners Mall]

Try Norton ghost and Acronis true image they are good for back up

[admin]

Another big advantage of Macrium paid version is a licensed copy of WinPE. Comes in handy if you have some hardware you want supported by the boot CD that requires a Windows driver. For example, USB 3.0 isn't supported by the Linux boot CD yet. But you could load it manually after WinPE boot if you have USB 3.0 docking stations or external drives.

Yep, it really is quite convenient, which is why I purchased the paid version (plus incremental/differential backups are essential if you want to keep multi-dated backups, and don't want TBs of data).