I am planning on getting an external hard drive to back up my new computer's information. However, I have never used one to back up an entire hard drive. So, I want to know, if I back the hard drive up multiple times will the same files that I backed up the first time still exist or will I be given the option to replace those files? Thanks.
When backing up to an external hard drive more than once are some files duplicated?
- Thread starter DrSloop
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elmo2006
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- Jul 27, 2009
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You may wish to peruse the interweb for imaging software that performs differential and incremental backups. Basically you perform a complete backup then each and everytime thereafter only those files that have changed will be backed up, however; if you plan on restoring the files you will be required to have all the require images files or you are pooched!
I actually purchased Macrium Reflect for these options as the free version has those options disabled.
- Mar 16, 2013
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Basically, what you really want is a basic image/backup of your drive in its initial state.
Any of a number of clone applications will do that. CloneZilla, DriveImageXML, Macrimum Reflect.
After that...all you really need is to back up your personal docs, pictures, etc.
On recommendation from another Tom's member, I'm evaluating SyncBackFree. So far, it appears to work pretty well.
I also use FreeFileSync.
Give it the source and target folders...and it does its thing.
- Mar 16, 2013
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Going all the way back to Win 98 (95?) and the 'Briefcase', I've never used any of the MS designated backup solutions for maintaining a current copy of my personal stuff. Why? Because to retrieve those in case of fail would often require that specific Windows backup thing. Sometimes it required the same Windows install!
A regular file copy thing, such as FreeFileSync or SyncBackFree just copies the files as they are. jpg, txt, even Word docs...I can read those with anything. In case of disaster...at a friends house...boot from a Linux LiveCD, connect the 'disaster prep external drive', and off we go.
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