How to check a backup?

copiman · 28 May 2016

I have a couple of questions related to backups.

I just performed a back up I think. Its the first time for me. I used Windows backup. Is there a way to see whats in the backup to ensure it backed up what I think it backed up?

I also performed an image backup as well using Macrium. I'm almost sure there is a way to access data (docs, pics, etc..) in the image. I think you mount the image using Macrium and then you have access to the data.

I need to understand this better. I am about to do a clean install and need to make sure I'm covered on the data. This data cannot be replaced. I will show the PC owner how to set up backups since she has never done it.

ignatzatsonic · 28 May 2016

Regardless of what you do, you can't ever be positive images or backups will work in the clutch.

Macrium and Windows Backup aren't the best tools for sheer data backup. I'd supplement them with at least one copy done by simple drag and drop to a totally different drive.

Or use an application dedicated to nothing but data backup. There are many, paid and free.

Or do both. I do.

You should be able to double-click your Macrium image file and drill down anywhere in it to the pictures of your cat and copy them anywhere you want---just like in Windows Explorer.

The best use of Macrium is to back up your operating system and installed applications, as opposed to data.

The first and foremost thing you need to understand about Macrium is the making and correct use of the rescue disk or flash drive. If it won't boot your PC, you are wasting your time. If you don't know what to do after it does boot your PC, you may be in for some rude surprises when you get in a jam.

If your data is on C, then of course it will back up everything on C, but in an image file. Which leaves open a point of failure--a complication.

I assume you know you have to back up System Reserved as well, assuming that's where your boot files live. If you don't have a System Reserved partition, the boot files are elsewhere---possibly on C.

I have few clues about Windows Backup other than it's clumsy and finicky enough that I avoid it.

copiman · 28 May 2016

Thank you for elaborating on this. I get a little nervous when it comes to data. I had always drag and dropped which is what i'm doing right now. I think between an image, a backup, and a drag and drop, I should be covered. Thank again.

RolandJS · 28 May 2016

Another thing you can do, do all of what you did onto a 2nd external hard-drive. The odds of both external hard-drives failing at the same time are very slim. Also, pretend you're doing it carefully for the first time -- assume nothing, "measure twice or thrice, cut once" figuratively speaking.

jadinolf · 01 Jun 2016

I run 2 backups almost every day using 2 different backup programs to 2 different external drives.

I have 5 computers and only 2 times has one of my backup programs failed me but the second program saved me.

Can't be too safe.

Expensive? I see no reason to buy a backup program since there a so many free ones available and a hard drive enclosure is in the twenty dollar price range and if you can find some old drives lying around, you are set to go.

copiman · 11 Jun 2016

Thanks everyone. My goal is to build a NAS and use it for backups/images. another hands on project of mine to continue on my quest to IT.