best way to image a hard drive?

[2-step]

Hey there, i am about to go and install windows 7 on a friends old pc, not sure what its gonna run like so i would like to make a image/clone of the windows XP hard drive beforehand

anyone give me some software? thanks

 

[Memphis]

Acronis True Image.

 

[mrk]

Windows XP has a built in backup tool that can back up the entire harddrive - I use it at work to image workstations for easy restore when there is a hardware failure and the OS needs reinstalling etc.

It backs up the install to a single file like how Windows 7's system image creates a VHD image. XP creates a .bkf file which can then be restored or browsed using the backup and restore utility.

Windows XP Home doesn't come with the utility by default, it has to be installed from the XP install disc's value added directory.

 

[Dynix]

I use Norton Ghost. Absolute breeze!

 

[theheyes]

Clonezilla, but if you're not used to imaging tools I suggest taking a file-based backup first.

 

[2-step]

ok thanks for the advice guys, i will be taking a file based backup first just in case it all goes south

 

[KatanaDV20]

Macrium Reflect Free Edition. Beautifully designed, flawless interface and it just works every time. Saved my ass numerous times let me tell you Very fast too.

Theres 32bit & 64bit versions
http://www.macrium.com/reflectfree.asp

Clonezilla, but if you're not used to imaging tools I suggest taking a file-based backup first.

Thats good advice

 

[That Guy]

I have used both Acronis True Image and Norton Ghost and they both work very well