Windows 7: Opinion on best backup program I should use

I have a new computer and a new 2T external hard drive. I'm no techie so I like things simple. What I would like (in my dreams) is a backup program that will simply duplicate all that is on this computer, including settings and passwords, and will backup the minute a file is changed. That way, if the unthinkable happens, I don't have to spend a whole week installing programs, settings and the like.

Also, if I delete a file, I'd like it to be reflected on the external hard drive.

And just to make it perfect, I would like it to be free. (Dream on, right?)

Any suggestions? I've already spent a whole heap of money on new equipment. A person could go broke just trying to keep up with the latest technology.

And just for clarification, I have a Toshiba, Core i7, whatever that means.

You can have a look at this freebies list (Courtesy of Brink), you might find something there.

FREE Great Programs for Windows 7

One thing you should definitely do is make a System Image at regular intervals and keep one or two in addition to the current one. When things go to hell on your PC because of a virus or other problems, it can be invaluable.

Backup User and System Files

Hi,

In addition to Borg's excellent suggestions, you might want to consider SyncToy - the best you can do for automated file backup, is to run it from within Task Scheduler on a daily basis. Its completely free.

Regards,
Golden

Make a distinction in your mind between your personal data files and Windows.

Use an "imaging" program of some kind to backup Windows. Use a "file by file" backup program to backup your personal data.

You can put these things on an automated schedule, but I would be wary of that until I fully understood the applications. They aren't likely to be fully automatic in real-time.

Imaging candidates: Windows built-in imaging, Acronis, Macrium, EaseUS. All free, except Acronis in some circumstances.

File by file candidates: SyncToy, Karen's Replicator, Second Copy, Windows built-in. All free except Second Copy, which is $30, with a 30 day free trial.

File by file is more reliable than imaging. That's why I wouldn't rely on imaging for my personal data backup, although I know some people do that.