Backup in lieu of Windows software.

I have been unable to carry out a backup of my computer as Windows appears to have a severe fault. Restore point is also affected. I note a third party, AOMEI backupper is available, how reliable is this software?

I know nothing about that software but there is no point in backing up a corrupt install of Vista because the backup will be corrupt. You only want to back up when you aren't experiencing any issues. You should be able to perform manual backups of your personal files provided you aren't experiencing any hard drive issues.

Thank you for response. All software files are saved to HD's. My main worry is that from indows 7 and revert to Vista, Windows Backup/Restore point have always been unable to complete. I agree that a Backup will still have the error, at least I will be able to restore a reasonable working computer. What is a reasonable Backup/Restore software, easy to follow and just able to Backup/Restore point without any add ons?

AOMEI is a good program. There are 2 versions - the Backupper and the Onekey. The latter does not require a recovery medium but is of no use when the disk goes south.

My favorite is free Macrium Version 5 (Version 6 is not free). Here is my tutorial.

WHS, many thanks for your response, appreciated. I will certainly look at Macrium 5. Bobbyscot.

I also use Macrium on Windows 8.0. On Vista I had good luck with EaseUS ToDo Backup Free

If Macrium doesn't work for you give EaseUS a try. Also Macrium Reflect Free will upgrade to 6.x eventually. I just checked their web page and they claim it will be v. 6 "soon."

MilesAhead, thanks for your response. At the moment using BackUpper 2.5., but still have to check how successful it backups on my computer. It appears to save each backup separate on the selected HD, that means it will through time clutter the HD. I may have not correctly installed BackUpper 2.5.

I downloaded Macrium Reflect 5, and notice it is Free trial only. Is there another download that is Free?

Free is on lower right side of screen
I give you both the download and my endorsement of Macrium. If has saved me several times.
Macrium Reflect Free

There are many good image backup programs. You may find more on
TheFreeCountry Whichever one you choose be sure to make the rescue CD or USB and try booting it. Short of actually doing a restore if you can see the backup image you made and your system disk you are usually OK. Now and then a particular one has a problem with a particular hardware setup.

Thank you for responses, will try out.