Bakup software that backs up program data?

[acoustic5679]

I was wondering if there is any software out there that backs up specific program data as in settings for each program. Office PIP setting files, outlook signatures, Quickbooks, peach tree files etc... Basically any a program that knows to look for all or most programs setting files or data.

 

[Ubrales]

Use Windows 'Backup and Restore' in the Control Panel. It will backup your entire system including data. This includes settings for programs. Just select everything to backup. There is also an option to create a Windows repair disk.

In addition to this, an external backup of everything on the computer is highly recommended.

 

[Rusting In Peace]

Use Windows 'Backup and Restore' in the Control Panel. It will backup your entire system including data. This includes settings for programs.

I've never used this utility before so I'm very curious if it actually works. Surely it's not bulletproof to backing up program data and configuration though?

 

[Ubrales]

I've never used this utility before so I'm very curious if it actually works. Surely it's not bulletproof to backing up program data and configuration though?

Just as good as anything else. Yes, it will backup everything. Make sure you check the correct boxes (everything) in the window.
Here is more info on this: http/windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Restore-your-computer-from-a-system-image-backup
and here: http/windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/What-is-a-system-image
and here: http/www.howtogeek.com/howto/4241/how-to-create-a-system-image-in-windows-7/

 

[Rusting In Peace]

Ah I didn't realise it was an image. That's cheating as you will restore the OS as well!

 

[Ubrales]

Right! In case of failure you want everything backed up!

However, if you want just the data files backed up, then check the correct box. Another way is to copy all the data directories and files on to another separate external disk.

 

[Rusting In Peace]

Ah but the OP is asking about program backup not a backup of the entire drive. Which is why I was saying it was cheating.

I would not trust any tool to back up all data files for a collection of programs. Because there are only two ways to do this:

1) Assume all data is under the programs folder and backup that entire location

2) Each program tells the tool where it's data and configuration is stored.

The problems with each are:

1) You are immediately making an assumption on the data location. No reason why a particular configuration wouldn't point to a different location.

2) It would take too much agreement from application developers to adhere to a magical "backup" interface for it to be worthwhile.

So, in my humble opinion, I don't think there is any bulletproof tool out there that can back up only program configuration and data.

 

[Ubrales]

So, in my humble opinion, I don't think there is any bulletproof tool out there that can back up only program configuration and data.

There is no 'bullet proof' anything!

 

[stugreen23]

Check out MyPcBackup! It is a easy, fast program that will backup your whole computer, and does the program files. I use it and it is great. Get the free download here: http/goo.gl/eLJSm

 

[Ubrales]

Whichever backup program you use, select "Backup entire computer" - that will take care of everything.

1. Windows backup.

2. EASUS TODO backup (free program for home users).