Solved using SystemRestore in Win7 Ultimate

[p3aul]

I want to create a System Image now while my Computer is operating the way I want it too. I get to the point where it starts to create the image and asks me to insert the first disk. My problem is How many disks is it going to take? It doesn't tell me, I guess, because it doesn't know until it's finished. Which doesn't help me any! I have about 10 disks on hand, but I don't want to run out of disks before the back up is finished. Maybe someone with prior experience could help me. My programs are using about 526 GB of 596 available(ouch!) I know I'm pushing the limit here.

Using that much space, approximately how many 4 GB dvd's will I need? Does the system backup compress the files at all?
Thanks
Paul

 

[SIW2]

Does the system backup compress the files at all?

No. There is a small amount of compacting, but no compression.

Your image will be very very big. Over 100 dvds. Impractical. I suggest you store it on a Hard Drive.

 

[A Guy]

Welcome back p3aul. While you could conceivably backup to DVDs, it will not be advisable. You would be much better suited backing up to a 2nd hard drive. Either internal or external. If you use an imaging software like the free Macrium Reflect, you can also set the compression ratio so you can use less space for the backup.

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/73828-imaging-free-macrium.html

I'm sure others will have suggestions for seperating the OS from your programs, etc. But backing up to disc in any case is problematic. A Guy

 

[SIW2]

You would be better using a free 3rd party program. It will be at least twice the speed and probably about 60% of the size. It is still a big job, though.

Download Free AOMEI Backupper ? Windows Backup & Restore Software

 

[p3aul]

Thanks for the quick response guys! Now I know why I saw the external disks at Walmart that were advertizing built in back up. So this would back up everything, and when I had to restore it all my programs would still be functioning?

 

[A Guy]

If you make a complete system image, and create the imaging programs bootable disc. Even if windows will not boot, you can boot from the program and restore the complete image which includes your entire system just as it was when you created it, OS, programs, documents, and all. It is indeed the best insurance.

Even in the event of a bad HDD, you can replace the HDD, and restore the image to the new drive. A Guy

 

[p3aul]

Ok That sounds like a plan!
Thank you
Paul

 

[Mark Phelps]

Thanks for the quick response guys! Now I know why I saw the external disks at Walmart that were advertizing built in back up. So this would back up everything, and when I had to restore it all my programs would still be functioning?

Not necessarily. The default backup program that comes with those drives might only make file and settings backups.

And, in some cases, those default backup apps are trimmed-down versions of regular retail apps such as Easus, or Macrium Reflect.

You can get a full-function backup app from Macrium Reflect for free -- and when you use that, you will know what is being backed up.