Automatic Backup Software

[nigel cross]

I am after some backup software for my desktop, ideally one that can be configured automatically.
Has anyone got a good one that is worth recommending?

 

[drifting]

Depends on if you want to backup the entire machine? or just specific files?

If it's just files, go take a look at Winzip 11. If it's the entire machine then consider Paragon Software, as this takes a snapshot, and can restore the entire hardisk in one go.

Regards Paul.

 

[BTB 500]

For data files, I just copy 'my documents' in it's entirety to an external drive (using Explorer). Disk space is so cheap nowadays I don't see any point in being more sophisticated.

 

[recycled]

nero 6.6 is a good one

 

[Shude]

What you probably want is a one-time backup of all your files (optionally also system files) and then incrememental every day to cover new and modified files (rarely system).

What do you intend to backup to?

 

[nigel cross]

There is some software available, but sold out, called bounceback which allows you to back up which ever files are chosen. It has the advantage in as much as can be scheduled, ie every Friday at 23.59. There by allowing me not to forget, as I have just found out to my bitter experience as my C drive has just gone down the swanny and my last back up was 6 months ago.Good job its my fault and not the wifes , so I cant blame anybody else.

 

[Chris_J]

If you're using XP Pro the use Backup in Accessories, System Tools. It may be available in XP Home too but not sure.

This can be configured however you like, whatever day and time.

 

[traser]

If you have Windows XP;

Start > Run... > ntbackup

We use it to back up servers so it's fine for workstations.

 

[timskemp]

If you're using XP Pro the use Backup in Accessories, System Tools. It may be available in XP Home too but not sure.

This can be configured however you like, whatever day and time.

Backup is available for XP home but not installed by default - add it from control panel / add remove programs / windows components

 

[nigel cross]

I can see backup on my XP pro machine but not on my XP Home machine

 

[gurpz]

The best software ever made for backing up the entire machine in my eyes(XP or below ONLY)onto a seperate disk drive has to be Powerquest Drive Image 7 ive got it and use it alot.Its that good that if u ever get trouble getting the pc to boot up as usual to the welcome screen then you can just insert the cd and run the backup recovery inviroment and browse the image file and presto a brand new pc in 5 minutes

 

[timskemp]

I can see backup on my XP pro machine but not on my XP Home machine

see post 9 above

 

[esox]

The best software ever made for backing up the entire machine in my eyes(XP or below ONLY)onto a seperate disk drive has to be Powerquest Drive Image 7 ive got it and use it alot.Its that good that if u ever get trouble getting the pc to boot up as usual to the welcome screen then you can just insert the cd and run the backup recovery inviroment and browse the image file and presto a brand new pc in 5 minutes

Sounds good.
Where do i get it?

 

[gurpz]

Yes youd be glad you had this software at times trust me i have been.

I bought it from PC World for £29.99 when it was new about 3 years back but since Vista is out it be a hard find because it dont work with Vista. Since that the case if ure gonna go shopping another good one is Acronis True Image 10 this one works on the same EXACT principal except its made by a different company and is also Vista compatible. Ive tried it also and it does EXACTLY the same thing you can also grab this from PC World not shure on the price of this one though.

Hope This Helps

 

[league67]

Acronis True Image

Absolutely the best snapshot software on the market. With universal restore you can also restore on completely different hardware (new pc). On my servers it manages to back up open files (AD, SQL, Exch) so I'd trust it for home pc. Just did 14GB restore in less then 5 mins.

They do have trial versions valid for 15 days.

hope this helps

 

[DieselE]

Backup is available for XP home but not installed by default - add it from control panel / add remove programs / windows components

If you have XP Home and only a recovery disk from your computer manufacturer you wont have Backup. The good news is that a Google search will find it.