Best way to clean backup files after restore?

[Guest]

I was having some problems and did a system restore, selecting the option to
preserve existing files. I have since figured out how to reclaim the ones I
want, but there are duplicate copies of old programs in the c:mybackup folder
created by the restore that are unnecessary.

Is it okay to just delete these folders through Windows Explorer? I know
you typically don't want to do that as it leaves a mess in the registry,
start menu, etc.

I guess I'm asking what is the best way to clean up all the duplicates that
the System Restore left me with.

Also, for the few programs I want to keep and don't have the CDs for
(say...DIVX) can I copy and paste from the "backup" folder to my regular C
drive so I don't have to DL large install files again? With my limited
knowledge, I'm thinking registry problems again...looking for someone with
the knowledge so I can keep the computer running smoothly.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Guest]

In the long run, using System Restore for backup is doomed to failure. The
points 'age off'. You need to find a better way to backup.

302894 - HOW TO Install Backup from the CD-ROM in Windows XP Home Edition:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;302894

 

[Guest]

In the long run, using System Restore for backup is doomed to failure. The
points 'age off'.

To be honest, I have no idea what you're talking about with those two
sentences. "The points 'age off"?

But I do appreciate the response! Your statement made me realize I might
have mis-spoken in the original post. I did not do a system restore through
a restore point, I did a system reinstall from the CD that came with my
computer (again, selecting the option that preserved my files).

If anyone can help me by letting me know the best way to clean up the
unneeded ones without leaving a trail of junk across my HD, that'd be great.
Is it okay just to delete through Windows Explorer? Will that leave registry
problems?

Thanks!

 

[Bert Kinney]

I was having some problems and did a system restore, selecting the option to
preserve existing files. I have since figured out how to reclaim the ones I
want, but there are duplicate copies of old programs in the c:mybackup folder
created by the restore that are unnecessary.

System Restore within WindowsXP does not offer the option to preserve
existing files. What process did you use to restore the system?

Is it okay to just delete these folders through Windows Explorer? I know
you typically don't want to do that as it leaves a mess in the registry,
start menu, etc.

What files are you referring to?

I guess I'm asking what is the best way to clean up all the duplicates that
the System Restore left me with.

Also, for the few programs I want to keep and don't have the CDs for
(say...DIVX) can I copy and paste from the "backup" folder to my regular C
drive so I don't have to DL large install files again?

Copying applications does not work, they will have to be reinstalled.

With my limited
knowledge, I'm thinking registry problems again...looking for someone with
the knowledge so I can keep the computer running smoothly.

Thanks in advance.

Regards,
Bert Kinney MS-MVP Shell/User
http://bertk.mvps.org
Member: http://dts-l.org