Skip to main content

System disk backup query

Thread needs solution

Hi

I want to periodically backup my system disk.

When I run the backup wizard, I see that my system disk has two partitions. The main C: partition and a "system reserved" partition which I'm assuming is the MBR (correct?).

Question... If I want to backup the entire disk, do I need to select both these partitions? or will Acronis TI offer me the chance to build the MBR from scratch if restoring to a "virgin" disk?

My system disk is an SSD and what I shall want to do at some point in the future, is "secure erase" my SSD to return the disk to factory fresh state (as write speeds degrade over time depending on how you use the disk and what sort of data you write to it). So I'm aware that there are issues with "partition alignment" regarding SSD's. So this may effect the answer to my query.

I've searched the forum and there are a lot of posts on these sorts of topics but I'm still a little confused.

Thanks in advance.

0 Users found this helpful

MBR Info:
http://forum.acronis.com/forum/17793#comment-53570

The system reserved on most systems is the adtive boot partition and if your backup does not include it, you are in for a lot of grief trying to recover.

The system reserved is miniscule in size so

The type of backup which offeres you the most recovery options with the fewest problems is a backup of the entire disk which includes any and all partitions. The system reserved is miniscule in size so adds little to the size of the backup but without it, you would need to have and use your Win7 install disk in order to recover.

When moving to a new disk or trying to recover to an old disk, Generally, the best recommendation is to use a disk option backup which includes all partitions of all types.

In 2011 Windows mode, when doing a backup and on he "Configure Disk Backup Process" screen, you get to the Disk mode by clicking on "Swtich to disk mode" and selecting/chedking the proper disk to be backed up.

In 2011 Rescue CD mode, you can checkmark the proper disk and all partitions will become checked.

So, your best choice is to a disk backup which includes all partitions and all your personal data. Backup file size will be about 65-79% of your used space.

It would also be wise to open Windows Disk Management and do a screen capture of the picture of how your system disk is partitioned and with the text inside the pictures. This picture should be retained and accessible should you ever need to post on the forum about difficulties of restoring or booting, etc.

Thank you for your prompt reply. Very much appreciated.

I actually have Acronis TI 2010. Thought about upgrading to 2011 but was somewhat disappointed to read that it's not "completely" SSD friendly yet (especially partition alignment wise)! Unless this has changed in the intervening time.

So... when I do a "Disk and Partition Backup". All I need to do is select the disk in question and that seems to in turn select all (in my case... two) partitions.

The above is what I did the first time I backed the disk up, but the second time (yesterday), I just let it go with the default (only main partition selected) hence my query.

I've looked in my first disk backup and the "reserved" partition contains:
- Directory BOOT
- Directory System Volume Information
- bootmgr.exe
- BOOTSEC.BAk

Is this in line with what you expected (IE. mention above)?

Thanks again.

PS. Good suggestion re: Windows Disk Management.

If your backup was only of the one partition, that backup can be used to restore overtop the old partiton and the restore will correct any issues with the old partition. If you are wanting to restore the single partiton onto a new disk, the result it will not boot and you will need the Windows install DVD to do a repair.

There is nothing wrong with having single partition backups but you must also have additional backup which include all the partitions so if you have boot problems or want to move to a different disk, having a full backup will enable you to do so. Just be sure you have a mix of single and full backups so you can choose the type of backup which fits your needs at your moment of restore.

OK. Think I understand now.

I'll just make sure I do complete Disk backups from now on.

Thanks yet again.