Question Should I use Windows backup or a system image before I upgrade my PC from Windows 7 to 10?

[Khatru]

I have Windows 7 on my current system. I am going to upgrade to Windows 10, but I want to backup my data first. If I use a system image, will this cause problems when restoring my data on the new OS? How should I go about doing this?
Thanks.

 

[USAFRet]

Neither. A System Image from within Windows is wiped out during this process.
Create a full drive image with one of the current Imaging tools.
Macrium Reflect, for instance.
Create this Image on some other physical drive, and have it disconnected during this process.

Also, copy all your personal data off to that other drive as well.
This allows a simple copy to the new OS.


Generally, an in place upgrade from Win 7 to Win 10 works just fine. All your stuff remains.
But if it does not...you'll be glad you prepared.

 

[Khatru]

Thanks for the quick reply, I did forget to mention I have an external drive that I planned to use for the backup. What were you referring to when you mentioned having it "disconnected during the process"?
I'll try making a backup using Macruim.
Thanks again.

 

[USAFRet]

Thanks for the quick reply, I did forget to mention I have an external drive that I planned to use for the backup. What were you referring to when you mentioned having it "disconnected during the process"?
I'll try making a backup using Macruim.
Thanks again.

Simply...unplugged.
A drive that is physically disconnected is immune from any weirdness that may happen during the upgrade process.