Macrium Reflect - the basics

[slipd]

Hi guys,

Although I've used macrium before to 'clone' I've never used it to create an image... cloning was one of the easiest software experiences I've ever had

Anyway, I've set up a new machine, configured/update it and I want to create an image of the drive in case of future problems. I select the partitions I want; the 100mb system restore (windows 7) and the main partition where all the data resides. Now, what's with the 'save as .xml' option and do I need to create a recover disc/s, as I am constantly asked upon starting the software?

Next thing, how do I restore an image once its been created? Is that what the recovery disc is for

 

[theheyes]

Are you bothered about specifically using Macrium? The built in backup tool that comes with Win7 will do exactly what you want and you can use your original disc to boot and restore from, or you can make your own when prompted.

 

[bledd]

I'm not at my PC at the moment, I'm guessing the save as XML is for saving settings to a file?

Create a recovery disc, you can use a CD or it can turn a USB drive into a bootable USB recovery 'disc', this is for restoring, you can also use it for offline image creation (making an image when Windows isn't running)

Before creating an image, I'd remove as much junk as possible, run CCleaner to remove temp files, clear out folders like 'Downloads' and 'Desktop' as much as possible

 

[slipd]

I just thought macrium looked like it could do the job?

I've done it now and I've made a linux-based rescue media because I didn't fancy the 1.7gb download from microsoft

I've having tried doing a complete restore yet but I'm confident!

Thanks.

 

[StringJunky]

I've been using the free version for 3 years now and never needed to use the .xml file. Don't worry about it now.

Apparently it's best to image each partition separately. You only need to image the 100mb partition once and keep it safe. You should create your recovery disk now and check that it works by booting up with it and see if it takes you to the recovery options. Here's a youtube vid on using the disk:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRqsw4U8S60&feature=related

Don't wait for disaster to strike to see if it works. Make two new images of just your C; drive (in case one doesn't work...not very likely but possible) leaving all options at their defaults...just point to where you want to store the image. Select option to verify your image before you make it. When they are made (including a separate one for the 100mb partition.) put your boot disk in and follow the instructions in the video. DON'T MAKE YOUR C: DRIVE ACTIVE...the 100mb partition is the active partition which is the one you mark active if you ever need to. It takes my 2gig celeron/2gig ram laptop about 10 minutes to image 20 gig and 20-30 mins to restore it.

First time is scary but I do it on a whim now...I've found Macrium to be very reliable.

I will add that I have split my HD into C: (system) E: (Data) and keep my images in E: and an external HD. If you have any really precious files in your C: drive make copies before you try it.

http://www.howtogeek.com/forum/ forums has experienced users there if you get stuck.