Windows Backup says not enough space on external drive, but there is

Problem gone?

If not and if you are not using Microsoft Security Essentials, then try with your anti-malware software 100% disabled.

rundwald,

Here is my personal evaluation:

For image backups, then Windows Backup and Restore is excellent. I use Windows Backup and Restore frequently because of testing.

For pure data backups, I'm not impressed although the data backups do work.

For data backups, I've found that the free SyncToy from Microsoft is excellent and reliable.

Since the Windows Backup and Restore creates a VHD file, then I have had occasion to mount the VHD and then use Windows Explorer to work with with files on the VHD.

For data backups, you might want to investigate using Google Docs. Google Docs is much different from before. You can store any kind of file there and also not have your true .doc files translated to open office format. Your normal gmail/google account gets you 7GB. You can get an additional 25 GB a year for $5. You can use Insync to sync the google doc storage between your computers.

Download: SyncToy 2.1 - Microsoft Download Center - Download Details

VHD = Virtual Hard Disk

Despite of what the Windows Imaging fans like Karl say, Windows Imaging has proven to be extremely inflexible and touchy. There are many reports where people could not recover from a Windows image - and that can be fatal when you rely on it. At least as long as the VHD is intact you can fix that with a very involved procedure. But that is not a suitable way for a non-geek.

I therefore decided for myself - and so have many others - to use a more robust imaging program. In my case it is free Macrium but there are also other viable options like free Pargon, etc.

whs,
I wish you all of the happiness in the world.

Ignorance is bliss.

karlsnooks said:

whs,
I wish you all of the happiness in the world.

Ignorance is bliss.

Karl, you are not very kind. I think I never gave you cause to be agressive with me.

I have tried a lot of imaging options and I only share my experience and what I have seen of other people when using Win7 imaging. What's wrong with that.

After more than 50 years working with Computers I think I can judge what is a good solution and what is not.

Experience does not imply knowledge or judgment capabilities.

Incidentally, I've got your 50 years beat!