Backup image

[Scott]

I install the OS and application programs on drive C and would like to
create an image using Symantec Ghost. In case of any file corruption and
hard disk crash, I can restore them in a quicker way once I replace the hard
disk. In theory, it is workable. Can I ask the experienced administrators
if this is a reasonable approach and any points I need to pay attention to.
Your advice is highly appreciated.

Thanks,

Scott

 

[edavid3001]

Always verify your backup image using Ghost verify feature. While it
is rare, we have had some create correctly that fail verify and also
fail to be restorable.

Password protect your images. Keep a copy offsite.

If you are moving from one type of hardware to another, often you will
have to restore the Ghost image and then reinstall the OS. This is
especially true on Windows 2003.

Some RAID controllers don't work right with GHOST. Some fail
completely. Symanted doesn't officially support RAID. Some such as
Adaptec 1200/2400 series see the restored ghost as a non RAID drive, so
you have to make sure to setup your RAID array after restoring.

 

[Scott]

Thanks for your useful advice. Currently I do not involve any server
backup. Have you used the latest Ghost version, Norton Save & Restore? Is
it ok to do it with USB external harddisk for the created image? I plan to
install the software and create the image onto the external hard disk and
uninstall the software. Put the image onto a DVD disk and put in a safe
place. In case of system breakdown, fix the hard ware, restore the image
onto the hard disk attached to my workable computer. Put the new hard disk
with reproduction of OS + Applications into original computer. Any missing
points?

Scott

 

[Anna]

I install the OS and application programs on drive C and would like to
create an image using Symantec Ghost. In case of any file corruption and
hard disk crash, I can restore them in a quicker way once I replace the
hard disk. In theory, it is workable. Can I ask the experienced
administrators if this is a reasonable approach and any points I need to
pay attention to. Your advice is highly appreciated.

Thanks,

Scott

Scott:
Coincidentally I just posted some comments about using the Ghost disk
imaging program to clone the contents of one's HD to another HD. In my case
I prefer to work with the Ghost 2003 program rather than the later Ghost 9 &
10 versions. I find the earlier version simpler & quicker to use and just as
effective for basic disk-to-disk cloning purposes. As you may know the Ghost
2003 program is bundled with the Ghost 9 & 10 retail boxed versions.

So if you're interested, take a look at the thread in this newsgroup with
the subject-name of "Re: Recommendations on a GOOD backup package ??"
Anna

 

[edavid3001]

I use Barts network boot disk on "The Ultimate Boot CD" and use the DOS
version of GHOST to do backup and restores. I never use the Windows
version of Ghost to make a backup or restore.

I have ghosts stored on DVD, offline harddrives, network drives, etc.
Whatever makes sense.