What does a System Image create?


  1. Posts : 217
    Windows 7 64 bit
       #1

    What does a System Image create?


    I have read the tutorials and I am still a bit confused. If I create a System Image what exactly am I backing up? Is it a copy of Win 7 and does it include all the loaded software and drivers? Does it also copy My Documents and everything on the drive in question or should I back up My Documents etc. separately. Any advice please.
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 72,050
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       #2

    Hello Judesman,

    A system image is a complete copy/clone of the selected hard drives with everything on them included. :)

    Hope this helps,
    Shawn
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 217
    Windows 7 64 bit
    Thread Starter
       #3

    Thank you very much for that. So there is no point in creating a System Image and doing a separate back up/copy of My Documents etc. at the same time which is what I have been doing. Your help is appreciated.

    Judesman.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 72,050
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       #4

    You're most welcome Judesman.

    Yes, there could be though.

    A system image is good to restore everything (ex: Windows 7) on the HDD just as it was when created.

    A backup of just your My Documents etc.. files is good for when that is all you wanted to restore.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 217
    Windows 7 64 bit
    Thread Starter
       #5

    Yes Brink: good point. Thanks.

    Judesman.
      My Computer


  6. mjf
    Posts : 5,969
    Windows 7x64 Home Premium SP1
       #6

    Just to add,
    If your file/folder backup is of a moderate size (mine is around 6-8GB) then the first takes a little while but frequent incrementals are general very quick.
    I take images less frequently (once a fortnight say) and the more regular file/folder backups fill the gap so I don't loose documents or downloads in between images.
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 217
    Windows 7 64 bit
    Thread Starter
       #7

    Thanks MJF. I have been backing up My Docs regularly and as you say the "top ups" are pretty quick. However a recent problem with IE8 got me thinking about System Images and I have ordered a 250Gb external HD so I have plenty of back up space. Thanks.
      My Computer


 

  Related Discussions
Our Sites
Site Links
About Us
Windows 7 Forums is an independent web site and has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Microsoft Corporation. "Windows 7" and related materials are trademarks of Microsoft Corp.

© Designer Media Ltd
All times are GMT -5. The time now is 17:27.
Find Us