Partition(s) for backup

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Over the years I have been using PartitionMagic/Norton Ghost. I am thinking about updating to one of the current programs such as True Image (I have an unused copy of 10, but if selected I will update if I should) or Macrium Reflect paid version. I want to perform image (monthy) and partition/folder (daily) backup to an External Hard Drive for my primary backup and make a secondary copy of the image file on another external hard drive which I will keep in my fire-resistant safe.

In making the primary backup files (image and folder/partition files) I would like to keep the previous backup file so that I have it to rely on if the one I am making has problems. I would then keep alternating replacing the oldest file with the latest one.

My question is can I keep both copies of a backup file in the same partition on the primary backup drive or do I need separate ones and if so must they be primary partitions? I believe Macrium paid version allows this, but, not sure.

I am running Windows 7 Home Edition, 32 bit and one partition formated in NT. I will probably do manual backups initially, but, may later switch to scheduled. I used to use a lot of partions for system file, program files, data, etc,. Debating on wheter to go back to that system .

Appreciate any other comments also about parts of my approach. Thanks.

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My question is can I keep both copies of a backup file in the same partition on the primary backup drive or do I need separate ones and if so must they be primary partitions? I believe Macrium paid version allows this, but, not sure.
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With True Image that is the normal working. An image is saved in a .tib file and you can have as many as the available space allows.

I am running Windows 7 Home Edition, 32 bit and one partition formated in NT. I will probably do manual backups initially, but, may later switch to scheduled. I used to use a lot of partions for system file, program files, data, etc,. Debating on wheter to go back to that system .

That’s a matter of personal preference. Multiple partitions do allow for easy backup or restore of each of them and that can be advantageous. Even so, I prefer to have my single partition, which I image every week.

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I don’t recommend using imaging to backup non operating system data partitions. You will be far better off syncing data from that partition
to your external drive on a daily basis.

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Clint:
Seeking information . . . why do you not recommend using imaging to backup non operating system data partitions?
Dick

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Clint:
Seeking information . . . why do you not recommend using imaging to backup non operating system data partitions?
Dick

I would risk a guess about data requiring more frequent backups than system files, as they are likely change more often, so a less frequent imaging schedule may leave you exposed to data loss.

I thinking imaging is a must, but you can handle data in a complimentary way. I sync all folders where I keep files I work with, with Cubby, so there is always a copy of them in the other computer or the cloud.

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Clint:
Seeking information . . . why do you not recommend using imaging to backup non operating system data partitions?
Dick

I thinks it is more efficient to “sync” data that is added to a partition in increments rather than imaging, or even incremental imaging.
Why add the extra layer of imaging complexity when it is not needed. Syncing data to a partition is more efficient.

If the partition in question is an OEM restoration partition then only one image is necessary as little information is added or removed.

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Relative to Clint’s reply, how do I set this up in a software such as Macrium Reflect or True Image i.e., for my Windows 7 single partition, what are the names of the folders to select for imaging and which ones for file backup?

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If you have a single partition, just image it all and do that regularly. Depending on how often your data changes, so should your backup periodicity change.

For non full backups, just pick the folders you know that change more often and intertwine those backups with full image backups.
True Image (the app I know best) allows you to perform regular file backups. Here, you can backup user folders or libraries in a very simple way (just a click to include them). You can also pick any drive folder.

Probably, for data, there is the possibility of using something else. I use Cubby to sync data between my desktop and laptop and the cloud. It’s also a paid app. There are other options, some free. Using SkyDrive or Google Drive or some other similar service can also be an option to backup for the cloud. With proper config, the backup is automatic and it can include all your more frequently changed files.

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rurib.

Thanks for this useful reply! Sorry I am so late in replying, health issue.

Decisioneer

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No worries, hope you are well and have overcomed the health issues.

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