[Option]

Hello,

It’s been many years since I’ve encountered virus/spyware problems but my computer finally caught something and I’m planning on reformatting (that’s what I get for not having any AV). Luckily, I still have access to all my data so can backup everything that’s important. However, it’s gotten me thinking about the value of the data on my computer. I’ve got the last ten years of my life recorded and I’d like to ensure that I don’t loose that due to virus or hard drive failure.

Once I am done reformatting, I’m planning on keeping my data on a separate HD from my OS/software. The main reason for this is so that I can make an image of the OS/software HD but I was wondering if separating the data from the software will provide any significant protection to the data from viral corruption?

Thanks in advance!

[leroys1000]

If you use an external drive for backups,you can turn it
off,so the computer can't access it.
Only use it when you are relatively sure your not infected.

[perfume]

Dear option,
AS mentioned above, you can take an image of the OS/Software/Data on to an external hard drive. You can immunize the entire contents by simply flicking off the switch to the Extn.HDD. Before performing these tasks, make sure that the virus which landed you in this situation is removed. I am not very sure whether incremental backups (where you add newly downloaded software/MS updates, etc are added to the backup you have taken) are safe, simply because a virus entry via that route may occur.Correct me if i am wrong, because i have not come across any such problem. To be absolutely sure YOU MAY NOT opt for incremental option,though it makes your Backup look like RipWan Winkle. Since your purpose is to prevent "data corruption",check the total backup in GB and then buy an extn.hdd.

I have found the free version of "Macrium Reflect" to be rock-solid in taking a backup and RESTORING it when need be!

[Option]

Thank you Perfume!

[perfume]

Dear option,
Macrium Reflect(a free download) has saved my skin and the pc twice and the RESTORE function works great! My principle is, checkout how many GB is to be backed up and double it.That's the GB your External Hard Disk should have. Try and buy a firewire for faster transmission of data. Happy that i could be of some help to you!