How to backup Windows 7 installation disc

[Random Bob]

I reinstall windows a lot of times. I'm afraid that the Windows 7 installation might get scratches. So, I want to take a backup copy of the disc.

I want to know if it is copy protected or something or if I can directly copy it using an image burning software.

Thanks.

 

[marsmimar]

Hello Bob and welcome to Seven Forums.

I think the easiest way to obtain a "backup" installation disk is to download the official and free Microsoft ISO file and save it to a convenient location like your desktop. Then burn the ISO to a blank DVD. See the "note" in Step 4 of this tutorial:

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/3413-repair-install.html

 

[mjf]

You should be able to make an ISO backup of your original installation disc using ImgBurn if you want to avoid a download. I tend to have a backup of all my expensive software installation discs.
What you really paid your money for is the product key. Without this installation discs or ISO are useless apart from allowing you a limited period trial in certain cases.
I'm not a lawyer so I don't know if some MS copyright paranoia says you shouldn't do this.