Backups
Process of making copies of documents etc in case the original computer or storage device ceases to function. Backups are kept locally (in case of equipment failure) as well as offsite (in case of fire, vandalism or burglary).
Disk Images
A disk image is useful both as a backup (if the image software permits restoring particular files or folders) and for restoring the operating system, settings and data to the same or a different hard drive. Some users have a policy of creating an image of a computer system when the computer is purchased or initially setup. This image is then restored every six months or so to 'clean' the operating system. The process is simplified by partitioning the hard drive into at least a C and D drive. The image of the C drive can be stored on the D drive with other major data (eg all documents, digital photos etc). The C drive can then be reformatted and imaged when required.
Table comparing several backup/imaging products (dated 2007). The site includes reviews, links and general articles on backing-up. For important documents etc it is worth paying for a reputable and reliable backup software.
- Backup Utility as supplied with windows XP (by Veritas and Microsoft). Issues when using Backup Utility with Windows XP Home . Provides backups of user selections of disks, folders, files to fixed, removable or networked drives. all or particular Folders and/or Files can be restored.
- Ghost A commercial product by Symantec, widely used for creating and managing disk images.
- Drive Image XML A free utility for creating disk images.
- Acronis True Image Home {Version 8 was made available FREE with the July 2006 issue of Windows XP (Australian), including a 40% discount on upgrading to version 9). A serial number is required before installation can occur. This was available on page 112 of the magazine.
Acronis can maintain a 'secure zone' on the C drive (if no D drive). This zone is protected from being overwritten by the operating system and is easily managed using a wizard. In fact most True Image processes are easily completed using inbuilt wizards.
(second half 2006) Version 10 now available
Creating an image (version 8)
Click on start now or double click on create image
Tick the disk or partition(s) to be imaged.
Browse to where you want the image saved - click on + to expand the listing (secure zone, local partition, local network).
A new folder can be created (top right of location window)
An automatic backup name can be generated (icon at right of file name window).
In the next screen the splitting of the archive can be automatic or fixed. Acronis automatically splits image files to suit burning to CD etc.
Set the compression level in the following screen. The estimated image size and creation time is indicated for each level.
Password protection is then offered. The password if any is entered must be available if the image is restored later.
A comment screen is then available to describe the image.
The next screen summarises the settings for the image creation. Pressing Proceed will start creating the image. Back will permit changes to the settings.
- Winbackup v1.86 (2004)
I am using a free version which came with a magazine. The advantage of a free version is that I can use it on several computers totally inexpensively (I use Acronis on my two main work computers). Winbackup has a simple interface and can do full or incremental backups of whichever folders are selected. Backups can be made to local or network drives both hard drives and CD or DVD.
Restoration from the backup is easily managed right down to easily selecting individual folders or files to restore. These can be restored to the original location or to a different folder.
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