Best program for backing up computer ?

**CarolBee** · 08-09-2010, 09:06 PM

I know I will need to reload XP soon, due to the way my comp is acting. I'd like to know if anyone has a particular backup program they use and would recommend. If there's one you've used and DON'T like, let me know as well

Thanks!

**Gabe** · 08-09-2010, 09:42 PM

Where/what are you planning to backup your stuff on?

**krbshappy71** · 08-09-2010, 09:44 PM

I just use the cd-burner software that came with my computer. (Roxio) I put everything into folders, then drag and drop the folders into the program's viewing window, then click "burn". It prompts for more disks if it runs out of space on that cd.

Granted, this wont back up the programs, but those I can just reinstall myself. Its my photos and documents that I'm most worried about and the easier I can make that for myself the more likely I am to do it.

**Gabe** · 08-09-2010, 10:09 PM

I would suggest a seagate external drive. It comes with backup software. With 2TB you can backup several computers or do incrementals.
It has great reviews on amazon too.

FYI - The problem with CD and DVDs is that they deteriorate with time. It is also possible that when you purchase a new computer that the CD/DVD will not be compatible with the format of the one you saved it on. It would really suck to think that you CD or DVDS are OK when they are not.

Another benefit with using an agent like the one in the seagate drive is that it does backups automatically.

NO need to do any maintenance. It just works and gives you peace of mind!

Here is a link to reviews about the Seagate Free Agent.
They have various size and different prices.

Can't get any easier than plug and play with USB.

[ame="http://www.amazon.com/Seagate-FreeAgent-GoFlex-External-STAC2000100/dp/B003ELOSJG"]Amazon.com: Seagate FreeAgent GoFlex Desk 2 TB USB 2.0 External Hard Drive STAC2000100 (Black): Electronics@@AMEPARAM@@http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41vQdbqBKrL.@@AMEPARAM@@41vQdbqBKrL[/ame]

[ame="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002QEBMB4/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B003ELOSJG&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=067ZZ0T93KWJVC7RAH29"]Amazon.com: Western Digital Elements USB 2.0 Desktop External Hard…@@AMEPARAM@@http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31pqfG8%2BefL.@@AMEPARAM@@31pqfG8%2BefL[/ame]

**mndtrp** · 08-10-2010, 09:14 PM

I would suggest an external hard drive enclosure over an external hard drive. That way, you can upgrade the hard drive to a larger one, or replace if one goes bad.

Some along the lines of these.

As far as programs, I currently use SyncBack.
2BrightSparks | Downloads

**gmarie** · 08-12-2010, 01:11 PM

I am using Carbonite. It's about $50/ year.

**Keildra** · 08-27-2010, 05:23 PM

I'd say invest in an external hard drive.

**ladykemma2** · 08-28-2010, 06:07 AM

ok, how do i get the info onto the external hard drive? (i have to do this too...)

**ladytoysdream** · 08-28-2010, 06:58 AM

Backing up pictures and things you don't want to lose is a VERY good idea. Better safe than sorry.
I just got my computer back after the hard drive crashed. I lost about 1.5 yrs of pictures, and other stuff. Not a complete loss as I think I have some of the pictures on disks. But a lot of work anyway you look at it.

This computer is a windows XP version 2002. The tech who fixed it told me that I have a VERY good computer and it was worth putting money into. ( $ 96 ) It does have a pentium processer. He called it a snappy machine and said I take very good care of my computers. My other machine is a 11 yr old compaq that still works and I use as a back up machine. They see quite a few machines in there that are not took care of must be. But I need to get stuff backed up from that machine too.

**MomToTwoBoys** · 08-28-2010, 10:44 AM

Originally Posted by Keildra

I'd say invest in an external hard drive.

I agree with this. I have an external HD with a backup program built in. It's good. I do backups about once a week. I unplug it when not in use to keep people from hacking into it. I don't like CDs because they scratch too easily and the external is good, especially if you buy a good quality one.

**haukeye75** · 09-11-2010, 01:50 AM

I seem to be doing quite a bit computer work for my job lately. I used to use norton ghost. It is a good program but has a few drawbacks. It can be difficult to use at first plus even set at high compression on a computer with many giga bytes of data it will take many cds or even dvds to back the system up. For Xp I use a program called cobre. It is easier to use and compresses your data so you will only use a couple of dvds to back up your system.