Windows 7: The best solution to obtain an image for the computer,

The best solution to obtain an image for the computer,

I’m wondering regarding the best approach (technology) to take an image from a computer such that this image can be installed in another computer and thus avoiding re-installing all the software from scratch.

Thank you

Best

Jamal

It depends on the environment. If you are managing a corporate network and have users with identical machines you may be able to set up a network install script with a boot disc. The user boots the PC and it goes right into network log on and install.

If you are talking about separate identical PCs you may be able to use hard drive cloning software. Also it depends on the licensing of the Windows and the applications.

Search also on Slipstreaming.

Others esp. if they are system admins should be able to provide more detail and perhaps additional alternatives.

edit: you might also ask on this site
to get pointed in the right direction.

Hi Jamal, You could use acronis Backup software for data backup and recovery | Acronis or macrium Macrium Reflect FREE Edition - Information and download to make images of the HDD but installing that on another PC would lead to problems with different hardware

Note that if you use disk cloning and the OS on the source is OEM it may not work on the target when it sees a different motherboard. Make sure you have retail OS on the source with licensing to cover the number of installs etc..

I use Easus ToDo Backup Free. I think it also has a disk clone feature. You may also want to check into the support for your image media. I have an SIIG USB 3.0 card in my machines. I tested the Linux boot CD from Easus ToDo. It could see the image file in the USB 3.0 docking station with an internal drive inserted. Make sure your boot CD or USB Key supports the protocol if you have something faster than USB 2.0 media be it eSata or USB 3.0 or whatever. But there are many good free imaging and cloning programs around these days.

One source for a list is TheFreeCountry

Here is another Windows Seven Tutorial.
Windows 7 Installation - Transfer to a New Computer
My personal preference would definitely be a clean install on a new computer. This way you aren't carrying over baggage and unwanted problems.

Many thanks guys for the help,

I’ll be trying these options and let you know

Best

Jamal