Windows 8 Drive Image - Best Software to Use?

GM2

GM2

GM2

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I've just loaded a fresh copy of Windows 8 onto a new SSD.

I've updated Windows and all Drivers and now want to take an image for back-up purposes.

What's the best way / software to use?

Is the built in Windows Backup any good? Or should I use something else?

Is it best to back up to DVDs or another HD? Looks like just over 30GB to back up.

Thanks
 
Windows 8 has the same image creating backup option as Windows 7, it is just hidden under an unassuming name. If you search for "Windows 7 File Recovery" then "Create a system image" in the top left of the box that pops up. That is what I use.
 
For what you want, it should be. Most of the decent backup software is generally quite pricey in my experience. Although I'm sure someone could recommend something if you wanted to go that route.
 
It works fine. I wouldn't bother with 3rd party software if you just want to be able to revert back to a known state.

You should look into the refresh and reset options in Windows 8 too.
 
Its ok but the Windows 7 File Recovery image doesn't compress as much as others I've used, namely Clonezilla and Macrium Reflect.
 
If you're only wanting to make one image the Windows 7 File Recovery option will do but I found when trying to make a second image that it messed up / deleted the first. I usually make a few images so I can go right back to just after W8 was installed with just a few tweaks, then I make an image after I've installed some stuff that I think is still going to be required if I wanted to go back.

Put the image on the HDD though as it will still be of use if the system drive fails. Better still, also copy it off to somewhere else too.
 
Thanks everyone for your suggestions.

What does Clonezilla do that the built in Win 8 cloning option doesn't?
 
You have to run clonezilla offline. It's good but honestly I use the built in Windows image tool all the time and it works fine. You can even mount the vhds in Windows 8 natively now.
 
GM2 said:
Do you mean the SSD, or a separate HDD in the machine?
Click to expand...

Seperate hdd so that if ssd fails it won't take the image with it. You could also do one to span across some blank dvd's in case the hdd fails. Storing the image elsewhere to the ssd means you'll be covering the likelihood of wanting a fresh install at some point as well as being prepared for drive failure. If drive fails, pop a new one in and restore from image and your good to go.
 
I've also used the msi linux app that came with my mobo software as it has an option to boot into that linux os from the bios, and that did a good job.
 
Tbh mate I was just chucking clonezilla in as a suggestion, I have used it a lot in the past to re-image machines and its never let me down. I don't know why but working on partitions and imaging hard drives I prefer to use live disks rather than using software while logged in an os. Just my 2p
 
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