Over the last few months I’ve talked about setting up your PC to backup your Windows operating system using freeware utilities. It’s a job that’s divided into three phases: drive partitioning, data relocation and drive imaging. This month I’ll show you how to partition your hard drive and move your data. Next month, in the last part of this series, I’ll show you how to image your system drive.
But I need to start with some caveats:
First, these instructions are written for average users, not beginners. No, you don’t need to be an expert, but you will need to know how to do operations like locating, moving and coping files without me telling you how. These instructions are not for technical experts either. The partitioning and data schemes I’ll be outlining are extremely simple, rather than optimal. I’ve deliberately kept things simple so they are within the scope of average users. Besides, if you are a true technical honcho you know how to do this stuff already :>)
Second, I’m only going to give instructions for Windows XP Home and Pro. That’s because some of the freeware products I’ve chosen only work with XP. They may also work for Vista but I’ve not tried them out. Windows 9X and ME users are, I’m afraid, out of luck.
Third, I’m assuming your PC has only a single partition on the hard drive and that drive has plenty of free space. You can check this in "My Computer". If the only hard drive shown is C: and it’s less than 60% full then you are fine.
Fourth, it’s essential that you backup all your personal data to removable media or an online backup service before you start because it’s possible that you may lose your data permanently if something goes wrong. For the same reason you’ll also need a copy of your Windows setup disk handy, just in case you have to re-install Windows.
Finally, and most importantly, you’ll need at least two hours of time to complete the necessary steps. If you don’t have the time, wait until you do.
Enough qualifications; let’s do it.
The instructions are far too long for this editorial so I’ve written a guide on my website.
http://www.techsupportalert.com/partitioning-hard-drives-2.htm
This step-by-step guide covers partitioning your drive and moving some of your data to the new partition. When completed, your PC will be functioning normally, using the new partition scheme. Well, I hope it will be functioning normally :>)
The process of imaging your drive will have to wait until next month. That’s because I want you to do some preparation in advance.
The preparation involves the creation of a "UBCD4Win" boot CD. Don’t panic; I’ve set out instructions how to do this in the Tip of the Month section at the end of this newsletter. So there’s your homework.
See you next month.
Gizmo
supporters@techsupportalert.com
Insider tips, how-tos, best security practices, and more
The Windows Secrets Newsletter brings you essential tricks for running Windows XP, Vista, 7, Internet Explorer, Firefox, Windows Update, and more — weekly, free.
Bonus: get this free download when you subscribe
Interested in Windows 8 but don't know where to start? You have a friendly guide in My Windows 8 Consumer Preview: A Sneak Peek at the Windows 8 Public Beta, by Katherine Murray. This month, all subscribers can download Chapter 1 and Chapter 5. In this excerpt you will learn about the new look of Windows 8, how to make things happen in it, how to use the apps that come with it, and how to get more apps.
We guarantee your privacy: We will never sell, rent, or give away your address to any outside party, ever. We will never send you any unrequested e-mail. Unsubscribe requests are honored within one business day. Privacy Policy
Related posts:
