I have never used a image backup and would like to hear from someone that
uses it. Is it possible to create this type backup and also have it conected to
update whenever changes occur to my laptop.
Thanks
There are two major categories of imaging programs: 100% copy of each sector on a hard drive. This is the older method. The modern approach is to produce a file, normally a VHD (virtual hard drive) file. MS has gone 100% to this method.
Win 7 Backup and Restore will create a VHD and can also create good old zip files of your data. But more important and to the point is that you can, as with many backup programs, schedule a periodic backup. The Win 7 backup is intelligent and, after you've 100% backed up everything, will only make incremental backups of folders that have changed. A new "system image" backup is performed about once every two weeks. You select how and when you want the backup. Most backup programs also provide this option.
I'm a great fan of Win 7 Backup and Restore. That said, here is a list of other backup programs which also have their fans and supporters.
MACRIUM REFLECT
Macrium Reflect Backup and Hard Disk Imaging for Windows 7, Vista, XP and Server 2003/2008
Macrium Reflect. A complete hard disk image and backup software solution for your PC. Protect your personal documents, photos, music and emails. Upgrade your hard disk or try new operating systems in the safe knowledge that everything is securely saved in an easily recovered backup file
PARAGON BACKUP AND RECOVERY SOFTWARE
Free Backup Software: Paragon Backup & Recovery Free Edition - Overview
Backup & Recovery Free Edition
Total PC Protection for Serious Users! Take complete control of your PC’s safety. Based on solid commercial backup and recovery software from Paragon, the new Backup & Recovery Free Edition will give you a rich set of features that you can trust. Smart people backup; Backup & Recovery is smart backup.
EASEUS
EASEUS Disk Copy is a FREE reliable disaster recovery, hard disk copy, disk clone, partition copy, backup freeware. Support for all Hard Drive and removable drive.
EASEUS Disk Copy: Free Disk Copy, Disk Clone, Partition Copy Software. Sector by Sector for hard drive backup freeware.