If I back-up my entire computer, do I back-up any virus or malware infections also?

Question

I'd like to back-up my entire computer (files, programs and settings) before I format and do a clean install to get rid of all the junk plus some pesky adware.

I'm going to use Acronis True Image, but I'm wondering if it actually makes a 'complete' image of your computer to restore it, does it include any virus or malware also?

I hope not, but I don't quite see how it can avoid it. Anyone know anything about ghost-imaging and complete back-ups??? Advice much appreciated :)

Answer 1

Why not do a good Virus removal check, an adware check a cookie remover, etc.

An image is a mirror, (copies everything, including junk).

There ain't much point in copying what you want to get rid of.

If you want to do a Backup anyway, do it selectively, make new folders and stick the needed files in 'em.  Lots of work, I think, but if I was you, search around for good freebies for virus and such removers, Advanced Windows Care is great and FREE.  It'll do all the stuff you need doin'.

;-)

Answer 2

Yes, it will make an exact clone of your pc as it is now.

What you can do is to manually backup your files and the settings files and folders, reinstall the OS, reinstall the programs and replace their default settings files and folders with your backup.

But do first a disinfection.

Answer 3

hmm .. i am not sure ... but i think .. if you have got infected files already .. then  i think u will get those files too ... so naturally virus will be there in your image ...

and so .. i don't see any other way to avoid it then .. then simply removing that file and then backup your data ..

Answer 4

if you back up files that are not part of the operating system (pictures, music, etc) you should be ok...

using acronis true image will not get rid of the malicious programs on your computer...it will back them up along with everything else..

ghosting will back everything up.

Usually the spyware effects system files residing in C:\windows directory, so it is useful to back everything else up that does not reside in this directory to a cd\dvd and reformat the computer (providing you have a spare operating system disc handy)

If you dont have an O/S disc... (after you have backed everything up) you can try a system restore, which should rollback your computer to a state where it was not affected by spyware...

NOTE: after having rolled back, you will not be able to revert to your previous system settings (the setting that was affected by spyware).

You will be rolled back to the computer state at the time the system restore point was made.

a complete backup (normal backup) makes a copy of everything on your computer (including disc partitions and system settings)...

Answer 5

Yes you will back up everything.

You do not have to format.

Do this first

Update your Anti Virus and Anti Spyware

Turn off System restore

Start Computer in Safe Mode > press F8 before Windows starts

Scan with Anti Virus and Anti Spyware

After scan is finished and you have deleted the Male ware

Restart computer set a new restore point and delete all previous points.

Rescan with Anti Virus and Anti Spy ware.

If you do not have Anti Virus or Anti Spy Ware I recommend Avast and Spyware Terminator. Both are free.

Download, install and update from these links

http://www.download.com/Avast-Home-Editi...

http://www.download.com/Spyware-Terminat...

Second go to here and follow instructions

http://forums.majorgeeks.com/showthread....