information on system backup

[patch41]

i would like to know if i do a system backup does it only backup personal files such as music, pictures,documents,etc how about my programs, such as shurething label maker and other programs that i purchased on line but did not receive a cd for, can anybody advise the best way to backup the programs thank you.

 

[rive0108]

it backs up your User data.

recommendation:

create a complete pc restore disk image. This will create an image of exactly how your computer is now (with all partitions), then perform weekly file backup with Vista file backup utility. it is best to do these image/backups to an external. The initial file backups with be 25GB+, then it will backup weekly only the files that have changed since the last backup was performed, and create a new disk image every 6 months or so.

Drive Backup Express - Free Download!

 

[patch41]

thanks rive0108,took your advise and downloaded drive backup express looks like a good program but will it also backup all my programs that i installed such as shurething labeler (etc) as you can tell i am a newbie and any advise is appreciated thanks a lot...patch41

 

[rive0108]

thanks rive0108,took your advise and downloaded drive backup express looks like a good program but will it also backup all my programs that i installed such as shurething labeler (etc) as you can tell i am a newbie and any advise is appreciated thanks a lot...patch41

Paragon will backup everything on the partitions you select, and create an exact mirror image.

File backup will only backup your User data-not installed programs/windows components. the should be used in conjuction, after a restoration of Windows with the image, to restore all changed/updated User data to the current last file backup made.

Any programs (say you upgrade your antivirus/ dvd player/and all new Windows Updates since the image was made) will have to be re-installed. It is recommended to create a new image every 6 months to take program/update changes into account,thus keeping your image up to date.

 

[patch41]

thanks rive0108,good advise and was greatly appreciated patch41