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Recently, a friend of mine told me about DriveImage XML, a backup solution for Windows users. I decided to check it out, because I’ve been planning to set up a backup system for quite some time. This particular application takes an image-based approach, which means that it generally “duplicates” your hard drive and copies it onto another drive. DriveImage takes advantage of Microsoft’s Volume Shadow Services, and the backups are organized using XML. What does all this mean for the you? In a nutshell, you can:

• Back up your drives while you’re using them.
• Access and modify the drive images with third party tools. (No more problems with proprietary archives.)
• Restore your drive images in real time. (Even while you’re using the drive!)

Unfortunately DriveImage XML only works in Windows XP, Server 2003, and Vista, but it’s hard to argue with the price tag since it’s completely free! Furthermore, it supports the most important Windows partition formats, including the ever-elusive NTFS. DriveImage also plays well with the Task Scheduler in Windows, so you can basically “set it and forget it.” I haven’t actually tested this program to date, but I’ve heard a lot of good things about it.

In my apartment, I currently have 3 computers running Windows XP, and my MacBook Pro runs Windows Vista through virtualization software. This solution wouldn’t be much help on the MBP, but it could save me a serious headache with the other machines. When I finally figure out what kind of hardware I want to use in my own backup system, I just might give DriveImage XML a try. And of course, if you’re looking for a backup solution, this might be the way to go!

*Note: The above screenshot(s) were borrowed from Runtime Software. All logos and trademarks are the property of Runtime Software.