Computer Backup Systems?

[Downsizer]

Have been looking at backup systems for me (Non-tech person!!!!) and can't seem to find one that will back up the actual software and data. Most seem to do data only.
Then, the fine print indicates it will only restore to a similar hard drive only!?!? Well, my desktop is at least ancient at 3-4 years old now.. operates on Windows XP but certainly an old hard drive. We have a newer Laptop with XP as well.
As a Fulltimer, a web based backup system can be difficult with just a Verizon USB 5G Aircard!
Any thoughts or help would be appreciated. I just would hate to re-find and install all my old programs again, then the data.
Thanks... remember I am unedumacated in computer speak.....

[Harry B]

Complete hard disk recovery solution, backup, drive copy, clone and image computer software Try this.

I have been using it for several years. Works on XP, Vista * Windows 7 and will do what you want from backup software.

Should be able to find it for about $30

[mjp]

IMHO, Maxtor One Touch, sized to the system being backed up and the number of backup images you wish to store. Easy interface, restoration of image to existing drive or replacement if needed. One for each system in the "sticks and bricks" one in the RV. I use the FireWire interface due to the higher speed of transfer. Unit has both USB and FW interfaces.

Safe Travels

[edj]

I have used Norton Ghost for backup of the entire hard drive. You backup the entire drive (or any part you want) and create a 'start' CD to use to rebuild it after the drive crashes.

[Ray,IN]

He said no internet-based backup, a stand-alone system only. That is what I want too. Does Acronis copy all software programs, and OS, as well as what it says on the website?

[Mafiaman]

Most External hard drives like Western Digital come with software the is capable of making exact hard drive copies. The western digital one is called "retrospect".

[Ed-Sommers]

I use HDCLONE, here is the web site Miray Software - HDClone - Hard disk copy, hard disk backup, hard disk rescue!

[baraff]

I don't want to start a "PC vs Mac" battle, but I have to say it. Why deal with all this when you can get a MacBook, and an external drive and back everything up using Time Machine which is built into the OS? You can even completely restore your computer with Time Machine.
Really, what advantage does Windows give you over Mac? Maybe 10 years ago that was an argument but no longer. Your virus exposure is greatly reduced (though not non-existent), everything works, you can even buy and run Microsoft Office on the Mac, (although I use the free openoffice.org suite, or Neo Office).
You can even run Windows within the Mac OS using Parallels or VMware if you absolutely have to, to run those few programs not available on Mac. Or you can partition the drive using Bootcamp and install and boot into Windows if you want. I run Windows 7, Windows XP and Ubuntu on mine.
I am not a total Mac Fanboy, Apple does plenty of things wrong in my opinion, but the last thing I want to worry about is messing with my computer and the Mac OS does everything I need or want to do.
Are they expensive? Yes, more than a cheap Dell. Its one of my beefs with Apple. However, you can pick up a basic MacBook for about 1K and if you know someone with an affiliation to a school, you can get it for less.
And my Verizon USB 760 works great when traveling.

[Mafiaman]

There is no mac PC war LOL
On your apple using time machine and your on board hard drive has a mechanical failure, with your information safe on the external drive using time machine,(That was made by WD) what do you do about the on board hard drive? It should also be noted that not only can you install office the "apple" comes with Intel processors now.

So what are the steps to replace the "apple" failed hard drive?

[baraff]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mafiaman There is no mac PC war LOL On your apple using time machine and your on board hard drive has a mechanical failure, with your information safe on the external drive using time machine,(That was made by WD) what do you do about the on board hard drive? It should also be noted that not only can you install office the "apple" comes with Intel processors now. So what are the steps to replace the "apple" failed hard drive?

Well, if its under warranty, they can replace it at an Apple store. If out of warranty, either Apple store, a decent computer shop, or do it yourself if you're comfortable dismantling your Mac. Plenty of documentation on the web. Apple will put a base OS on it, or you can restore from your Time Machine backup, either the entire OS and data, or just data. Here's an overview from Apple: Mac 101: Time Machine
All hard drives fail, not a question of IF, but WHEN. Figure on 4-5 years before that happens as a rule, but it WILL happen eventually. Depends on usage and luck mostly.

[edj]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ray,IN He said no internet-based backup, a stand-alone system only. That is what I want too. Does Acronis copy all software programs, and OS, as well as what it says on the website?

Norton Ghost has an "option" to upload the 'full disk' backup directly to the net. I write the backup to an external drive as I create/update it.

[Theberrys]

I use Norton 360 for Protection and backup to a USB local drive. On line backup is also available but I choose not to put my data on the WEB.
You can get a 3 PC version.
Norton 360 Version 5

Dick

[wildtoad]

I take a more simplistic approach. I keep all my files in a set of directories and every so often copy them to a USB thumb drive. This includes any downloaded program installation files. This USB drive and the origonal software install CD's give me "Good enough" backup security. I figure that if it isn't in MY directories, I either didn't really need it, or I can find it again on the internet.

No I don't keep a bazillion pictures, but even then properly organized you can move them to removable storage.

The nice thing about the thumb drives is that I can plug it into any of my computers or any computer I have access to.

[GaryKD]

Hi Downsizer,
To backup your OS, programs and files, consider the Symantec products. There is "Ghost" and "Save and Restore". I've used both since they were made available. Neither has ever failed to backup or restore. They are simple to install and use.