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I am currently running a Windows Insider build and want to start using an external SSD for my backups. With the frequent updates in the Insider Program, I want to ensure my files and system are safe. What is the most reliable method to do this? Should I use the built-in File History and Backup tools, or is a third-party cloning software better for handling the potential instability of preview builds? I am looking for the best practice to avoid data loss.
Answer accepted by question author
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Easy done with using the built-in windows facilities.
Control Panel -> Backup and restore (Windows 7) -> System Image Backup. -> backup to you external HDD. Once done, plug the HDD into the new PC.
Or you can use a free disk cloning software like Macrium, and it works great. Full image backups. Have had to restore, worked like a champ. 100% recommend.
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Control Panel -> Backup and restore (Windows 7) -> System Image Backup.
This is deprecated feature and Microsoft recommend to use 3rd party apps or OneDrive.
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/whats-new/deprecated-features
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I use the built-in System Image once a week. I also use Acronis periodically. I save them to an external drive.
or is a third-party cloning software better
It's best to use some 3rd party cloning / image software. Some of those are free for home users.