Backing up programs?

by joebjo May 30, 2007 8:18PM PDT

I'm just getting around to backing up data on my pc (Windows 2000 SP4) to cd. When I back up programs such as antivirus, antispyware and many others, do I copy only the .exe file of the program (ie not the folders etc that it created)? This would mean that in the event of a system crash, that I would have to reinstall them and then get all the updates again. Is that correct? Or should I also copy the folders that the .exe files have created? Any help appreciated.

Joe

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Sorry, no.

by r. proffitt Former Forum moderator May 30, 2007 9:23PM PDT

Such programs are installed from web, cd or "other." Since about 1995 with the arrival of "the registry" and more, program backup has become impossible to do with any ease.

Bob

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image your system

by glennlee May 31, 2007 4:51AM PDT

Imaging your system with a utility like Acronis True Image, backs up to entire operating system as it currently configured including all the appropriate drivers, AND all the programs installed and properly annotated in the registry, AND all you precious data that goes with the programs. Nice insurance for about $50.

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Backing up data

by joebjo May 31, 2007 5:02PM PDT

Thanks glennlee. That does sound like good insurance for the price.

At this stage, however, I'm only looking at backing up programs, and then personal data, to cd, and maybe even eventually the operating system! I'll look in to proper back up utilities in the future.

Thanks.

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Then backup the installation programs.

by Kees Bakker May 31, 2007 6:28PM PDT

Those are easy to rerun if you need.

Kees

Backing up programs?

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