How do I back up programs off my boss' computer? (no IT dept)

Asked by redhen4 (520

) April 9th, 2014

I think I know just enough about computers to be dangerous, as they say!

My Boss’s computer has been crashing. Before it goes out all the way, we want to back up his programs.

I have been researching online and asking people—how do I back up programs?

I have a flash drive for documents, but isn’t it just for documents, spreadsheets and the like? I need to back up programs.

I have attached to my computer a NexStar3. I think this does what I’ve been trying to research, but I don’t know. I was told to back up files and to run the NexStar3 once a month.

When I turn on the NexStar3 there are several things that come up, naming my computer, the boss’, a co-workers and another machine.

Should I just unplug it from my PC and plug into his to back up his programs?

Not sure if we have discs for all programs. Will I need them in addition to the NexStar3 or will we be able to salvage his computer using the NexStar3?

Thank you!

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1 Answer

Copying files may or may not preserve everything; there are plenty of hidden files and things in odd places that you’ll likely miss some stuff.

Imaging though, that pretty much makes an exact copy of your entire drive, even the stuff you didn’t know was there. However, that includes any malware infections as well, so it’s of little use if your system fails due to a virus.

I wish break was longer so I could find simple disk imaging software for you…

jerv (31079

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