crwdns2933803:01crwdne2933803:0
crwdns2933797:0Nickcrwdnd2933797:0crwdne2933797:0
crwdns2936043:0crwdne2936043:0 crwdns2933505:0crwdne2933505:0 Nick
- crwdns2933769:0crwdne2933769:0
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| - | [title] Back the data on the computer up |
|---|---|
| - | [* icon_note] This step only applies if you do not have a recent backup and the drive works. If the drive is dead or is already backed up, start at Step 2. ***Note: Due to the possibility a recommended solution may not be available or work, I can not recommend a certain piece of backup software.*** |
| - | [* black] Before you begin working on the computer, do a backup before you start working on the system. You can use a backup program or drag and drop your files to the external hard drive to do this. ***Note: If you wish to have additional security or get up and running sooner, you may want to image your old hard drive. This will take several hours.*** |
| - | [* icon_reminder] While a new OS installation is recommended for most people, you may be able to image your old drive and copy it to the replacement drive, rather then starting over. The viability of this depends on the condition of the old installation. Most users should only do this as a preservation step, should the old image be needed later on. |
| - | [* icon_caution] ***Imaging as a operating system backup:*** For most users, your old installation will likely need extensive cleaning. For these situations, consider the image a plan B should you ever need it. This is useful for situations where the old drive is questionable, the OS has issues, or the drive is not in the best shape or being reused somewhere else. |
| - | [* icon_note] ***Imaging to reuse the old installation:*** If you are imaging the drive to use the old image rather then starting over, the key things to do are to minimize the programs installed, clean up the files and prepare the image for the new drive. If you are certain the old installation is good, this is a good option. |
| + | [title] Backup your personal data |
| + | [* icon_caution] ***In most cases, the existing OS is likely to need extensive cleaning to be usable. If the drive is imaged in this scenario, the image should only be used to save the final snapshot of the drive if the original hard drive is failing.*** |
| + | [* icon_note] This step only applies if you do not have a recent backup and the drive works. If the drive is dead or you want to start fresh, skip this step. ***Note:*** I do not have any specific recommendations for backup software. |
| + | [* icon_note] While a new OS installation is recommended, drive imaging can be used if the current OS image works to save time. ***This should only be done if the current OS installation is in good condition or only needs minor cleanup.*** |
| + | [* black] Before working on the system, make a backup. This can be done with drag and drop or a backup program of your choice. ***For additional security, an image of your old hard drive should be made. This will take several hours.*** |