Need suggestions for best software to do end-to-end disk image for archiving

[SunnyD]

Basically, what I'm looking for is a tool/program to do a full end-to-end image of an entire (arbitrary) system, preferably to a CD, DVD and/or Network share for system archival before being wiped and reimaged fresh.

What's more, I would prefer this tool to be something that would preferably not need to be installed on the machine - if possible. Something maybe to boot off a CD, and then take an image of the drive. I've looked at TrueImage, and I'm not sure whether it can do this. What's more, I think with TrueImage's license you need to purchase a license for every machine it's used on, whereas I'm looking more for a utility that can be used when needed.

About the only thing I can come up with is Linux's dd, but I would like to have the ability to load the archive to "browse" without restoring it.

Does anything like this exist currently? Any suggestions? TIA!

 

[BlueWeasel]

I recommend TrueImage, as it can boot from a CD and do all the image backup/restore/transfer from outside of Windows. The only drawback is you have to install the program first in order to create the Rescue (boot) CD.

 

[SunnyD]

Originally posted by: BlueWeasel
I recommend TrueImage, as it can boot from a CD and do all the image backup/restore/transfer from outside of Windows. The only drawback is you have to install the program first in order to create the Rescue (boot) CD.

Ah, but can I install it to a different workstation to create the Rescue CD and then use that rescue CD on yet a different workstation?

 

[BlueWeasel]

Originally posted by: SunnyD

Originally posted by: BlueWeasel
I recommend TrueImage, as it can boot from a CD and do all the image backup/restore/transfer from outside of Windows. The only drawback is you have to install the program first in order to create the Rescue (boot) CD.

Ah, but can I install it to a different workstation to create the Rescue CD and then use that rescue CD on yet a different workstation?

Well, I'm not sure of the legality specifics mentioned in the EULA, but the answer is yes. The Rescue CD you create on any workstation is usable on any other computer system.

 

[SunnyD]

Originally posted by: BlueWeasel

Originally posted by: SunnyD

Originally posted by: BlueWeasel
I recommend TrueImage, as it can boot from a CD and do all the image backup/restore/transfer from outside of Windows. The only drawback is you have to install the program first in order to create the Rescue (boot) CD.

Ah, but can I install it to a different workstation to create the Rescue CD and then use that rescue CD on yet a different workstation?

Well, I'm not sure of the legality specifics mentioned in the EULA, but the answer is yes. The Rescue CD you create on any workstation is usable on any other computer system.

Just tried out the Trial, and it (TrueImage) will do what I need it to. Unfortunately the Trial version won't. Off to the vendor I go!