Which method is better for creating an archive image?

1) Using the boot CD so that the image creation is performed outside of Windows.

or

2) Through TI under Windows

Logically it seems that using the boot CD (outside of Windows) is more percise since the drives sectors would not be changing during the course of the archive. From a reliablity standpoint are both methods comparable and what do most people tend to use?

 

Hi,

If you're using a non-mission critical system and can afford to take it off line then, by all means, do your imaging from the boot rescue CD. Note that you wouldn't be able to image direct to DVD in this case though.

Personally I've never had a problem imaging through Windows but admit that, potentially, doing it via the rescue CD could be more reliable.

Regards

 

Hi Anettis,

I agree with you. It's not just that the drive sectors change, but also that operating system files may be changing. To this I'd add the problem of copying OS files that are not available because they are in use. There is a workaround that imaging programs use, but it adds to the complexity of the process and detracts from reliability.

 

Hello anettis,

Thank you for choosing Acronis Disk Backup Software.

There is no difference between the ways of image creation. Acronis exclusive technology allows you to perform imaging under Windows without any risk of imaged data loss or corruption. Please read our article describing Acronis True Image behaviour under Windows.

Thank you.
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Ilya Toytman