Why does local backup 'require' NTFS when network backup doesn't?

Question

I have an external hard drive that also functions as network storage. I can back up to it using Backup and Restore via network (as long as I specify its IP address in its UNC), but if I have it plugged in directly to my PC via USB, I cannot backup to it. Backup and Restore says it requires a NTFS drive for backup. Why is this? Backup and Restore seems convinced it needs NTFS, but it clearly doesn't.

I'm not asking how to convert to NTFS. I'm just inquiring about an annoying limitation in Backup and Restore.

Answer 1

Hi Seth D,

This requirement was put in place for security.  If your preference is using the FAT32 for your storage unit, than backing up to a network location is your best option.  Otherwise, using a local storage location will require the NTFS format.  Please let us know if this answered your question.

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Dena

Microsoft Answers Support Engineer

Visit our Microsoft Answers Feedback Forum and let us know what you think.

Answer 2

Hi Seth D,

Thank you for visiting the Microsoft Windows 7 Community.  Here is a link that gives more detailed information about Windows Complete PC Backup.

Please let us know if this helped.

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Dena

Microsoft Answers Support Engineer

Visit our Microsoft Answers Feedback Forum and let us know what you think.

Answer 3

It's true-- you can't make a system image backup to a network location, either. However, why is that one can't backup files(not a Complete restore image) to a local FAT32 drive as they can to a network location?

Answer 4

I guess I was trying to give feedback by asking a question. My opinion (FWIW) is that non-system-image backups to local disks of any file system should be allowed. Would you please consider my idea? What's the proper forum for Windows feedback? (I have a feeling "Answers" might not be it). Thank you.

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Windows 7 Professional x64 Lenovo T400 Intel Mobile 4 Series