How is a reliable disk image made from a running OS?

I don't understand how Acronis True Image can make a reliable and restorable disk image when running as a windows application? Presumably lots of files are in flux either by actions of the OS or other running applications.

Inquiring minds want to know! Thanks!

 

It takes a snapshot like you would with a camera. It then uses this snapshot to make the backup. I agree that to make a backup of something that is constantly changing seems impossible. It is amazing that someone figured out how to do it. It is just as reliable making the backup image from windows as from dos.

 

Hi dhkom,

For a detailed description of how True Image achieves live imaging under Windows I recommend you check out this article by Acronis Technical Director Max Lyadvinsky titled <Disk Imaging in Windows - Increases user productivity and permits broader range of backup devices>. Hopefully it will satisfy your enquiring mind .

Regards

 

The "camera" analogy left wondering whether the photo would be blurred because the subject was moving while the shutter was open, but the article completed the picture. Very clever and impressive!