That backup image takes the place of installation media in the case of system failure. Here’s an example using EaseUS Todo: Creating a Backup Image Using EaseUS Todo Free.ĭo this as soon as possible after getting a new machine. Use a program like Macrium Reflect or EaseUS Todo (the free editions of either will do) to take a complete image backup of all the partitions on the machine’s hard disk. If you can’t get original installation media or create a recovery drive, a system image backup is the next best thing. Those “system files” are Windows itself, which means this recovery drive, once created, can be used to reinstall Windows 10 from scratch.Īs a bonus, the process lets you create either a bootable DVD or USB stick. Make sure that the option “ Back up system files to the recovery drive” is checked. Back up system files to the recovery drive. How To Create a Windows 10 Recovery Drive has step-by-step details, but I want to call out one important selection along the way. In Windows 10, you can make installation media for your system yourself.

It’s rare, these days, for that to be an option.įortunately, Microsoft now has a couple of fine alternatives. That’s the media allowing you to reinstall Windows on a completely empty hard drive. I used to recommend that when purchasing a new computer, you try to get installation media. In the past: insist on installation media Or you could abandon ship and install Linux instead. Download a retail copy of Windows 10 from Microsoft.Make a backup image when you get the machine to restore, instead of reinstalling.Make a recovery drive that includes system files.

Windows 10 installation disc