The upgrade to Windows 8.1 Preview left the users shocked to notice that the all-important and the all-safe System Image Backup utility had been removed from this newest OS version. However, much to the users’ relief, it was later found out that this crucial recovery tool is still available, just hard to find.
Prior to proceeding this piece for the solution, let be advised to first Scan and Fix your system’s concealed disorders which most probably is eliciting the inconsistencies:
- Step 1 : Download Systimizer – PC Cleaner & Internet Booster (Works on Windows 10, 8, 7 & XP)
- Step 2 : Click “Scan” to find system issues
- Step 3 : Click “Fix” to repair all anomalies
This article demonstrates on how to find the System Image Backup utility and how to use it to create and restore important files in Windows 8.1. But first, let’s dig deeper into this important recovery tool and see what it is capable of.
System Image Backup
Starting with Windows 7, System Image Backup is a recovery tool that allows users to create a copy of the existing system drives, and store them “some place” safe for later use. This copy, or rather image of the current drive, can include important drivers, system settings, system files, Windows programs, and other such crucial elements that can be restored later in case the hard disk or even the whole system fails to load and operate.
There are a number of options in which to copy and save the image created, such as an external USB drive, a CD/DVD drive, or a hard drive. However, the USB drive is considered to be the recommended choice since it can save data ranging from anything to hundreds of gigabytes, or even more.
If you have just upgraded to Windows 8.1 and wish to save your save your system from any sudden disasters, read the following section and get to know the simple steps to create and restore System Image in Windows 8.1.
Steps To Create System Image In Windows 8.1
- Connect an external drive to your system which will serve as the backup drive
- Enter the Start Menu (Windows key) and type file history
- Locate and click File History icon that appears in the search results
- Once the File History control panel is launched, locate and click on System Image Backup situated at the bottom left corner of the panel. This will launch the System Image wizard
- Select the drive on which to save and copy the image. Click Next to proceed
- Next, select the drives which you want to save and include in the backup. Click Next when done
- Click Start backup and allow the system to create an image
Steps To Restore System Image In Windows 8.1
To restore a previously created system image in Windows 8.1, follow the steps below:
- Plug in the drive which contains the system image
- Press Windows + I key to open the Settings charm bar. Click Change PC settings located at the bottom
- Navigate to Update and Recovery, and then enter the Recover category
- Locate Advanced Startup and then click Restart Now button situated under it. This will cause the PC to restart and then boot to a Choose an option screen
- Click Troubleshoot on the Choose an option screen, and then on Advanced options
- From the list of options listed, select System Image Recovery. This will cause the PC to restart
- When prompted, enter your Username and Password and continue
- This will start the Re-Image Your Computer wizard. Choose and select the system image you wish to restore to, and then click Next
- The wizard will then guide you through the image restoration process
Creating backups and giving your system an added cushion is always a handy procedure. Make sure you browse through some other alternatives as well that will help keep your crucial system files safe, and ensure that your PC is well prepared, always.
Related Article:
Create Custom Refresh Image to Fix Windows 8.1 PC Refresh Function
