Need to create an exact image of my current hard drive.

anthonyantonio

Distinguished
Mar 2, 2011
4
0
18,510
I need to do an exact copy of everything on my laptop. From files, to settings, to EVERYTHING. It only has one hard drive. I will be using a WD 2TB external. The software on the WD is very confusing and beyond redundant. I have EaseUS Todo Backup Advanced 5.0 is too complex. I have read about Ghost cloning hard drives, is this the solution to my dilemma?

My laptop is going in for repair at HP. I have been forewarned that a format of the laptop is probable. So I want to make an exact copy of my laptop the way it is, put it on the external 2tb hard drive, then when it comes back.

My issue is hardware related, so I am not concerned of the quality of the copy due to the integrity of my computer is near perfect.

I tried looking into the forums about this, but they seem to be very convoluted answers, wish there was an option to vote for the best solution, that could help somewhat with tracking down how to tackle an issue. I appreciate everybody's input and patience.

SEMPER FIDELIS

ANTONIO
 

moiraface

Honorable
Jun 14, 2013
8
0
10,510
Honestly you should be able to just use Microsoft's built in tools for the image. In the start menu you'll see 'getting started' and in there is a link to the back up tools. On the left side of the control panel that pops up you'll see "create system image" Click that and you'll get a pop up menu, it will let you chose how to save your image.