Backup Image Hard Drives/Partitions with Free DriveImage XML

We all know how important it is to have a recent backup of critical data, system/hardware drivers (something many of us forget), and user operating system settings, in case of system or hardware failure.

Well with DriveImage XML, a free, easy to use, and reliable program, you can go one step further and image both hard drive partitions and logical drives.

The real benefit of course in imaging your full drives and partitions is you now have the ability to restore your complete operating system, as well as your installed applications, user settings, and the registry.

I was very impressed when just this past week, one of my colleagues copied a dying hard drive to a new drive in less than an hour, directly from Windows XP using this versatile free application.

DriveImage XML uses Microsoft’s Volume Shadow Services (VSS) to create images, allowing you to create safe “hot images” even from drives currently in use. Images are then stored in XML files, which allows you to process those files with third party tools.

If, or when it becomes necessary, you can now restore the image to the same or a replacement drive. You also have the option of copying the drive image directly to a new drive, just as my colleague did. An added feature of DriveImage XML is the included image explorer that permits access to previously created backup images and the extraction of individual files

Since this program is currently distributed as freeware, there is no technical support offered. Instead, refer to the program’s help file and documentation. If you need additional help you can refer to the program’s frequently asked questions (FAQ).

Quick facts:

• Backup logical drives and partitions to image files
• Browse these images, view and extract files
• Restore these images to the same, or a different drive
• Copy directly from drive to drive
• Schedule automatic backups with Task Scheduler
• Restore images to drives without rebooting

System Requirements: Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, Windows Vista

DriveImage XML will backup, image and restore drives formatted with FAT 12, 16, 32 and NTFS

Watch the DriveImage XML video tutorial at YouTube

Download the application at Download.com

If you think backing up has limited value checkout “You’ll Thank Me One Day” by TechPaul.

For another view on How to Install Backup on XP Home, checkout Tech for Everyone a great Blog chock full of great advice.

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