Backup utility that does not create proprietary file format?

[TwIce]

I'm looking for a data back up app or utility that is non-invasive and not bossy or a hog; my last one would save files in a proprietary format which can only be accessed via the program that created it, so I reverted to simply copying and pasting folders in Windows.

My experience of these programs is limited. Ideally, all I need is something that I can install on two PCs, can remind me to back up chosen data files and remember where they go on one backup drive with separate backup destination folders for each PC. I'm hoping to use this app to select source files (My Documents, iTunes, etc.) one time, set the destination location and folders and then automate the process.

I'm running Vista 64x. I do not mind paying for a small-footprint app that does not install crapware.

As always, Sharksters, thanks.

[OS-Wiz]

Acronis True Image Home: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...mage+home+2010

[ua549]

I use Acronis and highly recommend it, but virtually all backup utilities require the same software to restore from backup.

[OS-Wiz]

I use Acronis and highly recommend it, but virtually all backup utilities require the same software to restore from backup.

Yup, I simply clone my C: drive to my D: drive, that way I've no proprietary format to deal with.

[fluffmonster]

Vista has an integrated backup imager that works well for a whole-disk image. I've never tried it on individual folders. Control Panel -> Backup and Restore Center. Only writes to an optical disk or another harddrive though.

For individual folders, I use SyncBack freeware version from 2BrightSpaks. It doesn't compress the files at all but as long as you have the space on the backup drive, you never have to worry about the files getting stuck in a format difficult to retrieve from. Its basically copying-and-pasting but automated...you set up the job and then just push 'go' forever after. I think it even has a scheduler though i never used it.

[cat5e]

If you want to save a drive as is, you need another drive of the same size and you can use any Sync program to duplicate the Drive.

It would not duplicate the Boot. So if the original drive is totally busted the backup can be used only for data files.

Therefore the choice for total backup is to use programs like Acronis True image that was mention before, and generate an image.

True image canprovides with the ability to make a Boot CD with True Image on it.

So if the original drive is Kaput you can boot from a CD ROM and restore the image.

You can also mount the image on a any functiol Hard Drive and extract/copy from the image files in regular format.

Only $25, http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16832200010
.

[TwIce]

Very useful info, guys, thanks as always.

[fluffmonster]

I want to add a note...I just moved to Win7 pro upgrade. I wanted to move it to another hdd of the same size. It has an integrated backup imager, but it will seemingly not allow you to install an image on anything but the exact hardware the OS was originally installed on. The attempt to move it to a different hdd failed, and I am certain it is free of mechanical defects.

I don't know if this is a bug or if it is intentional, but it completely escapes me why MS would build an integrated backup imager that is useless if you experience mechanical hdd failure. Maybe I'll pick up Acronis, though right now I'm mostly pouting.