What Is the Difference Between a Disk Image & a Bootable Copy?

When something goes wrong with a computer, it's always good to have backups.computer image by blaine stiger from Fotolia.com A hard drive crash usually means a lot of frustration and lost work. Fortunately, there are various backups and recovery methods available. Two of these are a disk image and a bootable copy of the operating system.

Disk ImageA disk image is a complete copy of the hard drive or disk in question, down to the bit level. A disk image preserves every bit of data on the drive at the time the image was made. This can be useful to copy the files to a new, working drive, or to restore the drive to a previously working configuration.Bootable CopyA bootable copy of the operating system or disk is used to get a computer running in the event of a catastrophic crash. This usually isn't a complete backup and is mainly useful for attempting recovery of any files and work on the drive or reinstalling the operating system.DifferenceA disk image is useful for a complete recovery of the drive as it was, but images usually aren't created in real time as a user works. A bootable copy is useful in the event of a catastrophic crash when files must be salvaged from the hard drive or the system software needs to be repaired. References PC Mag: Disc image PC Mag: Bootable Copy Who Can HelpSponsoredAsk Tech Support Online NowFind Computer, Electrical and Telephone Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.Photo Credit

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