New thred seeking help with malware. Questions about backup before proceeding.

[GDT]

Following instructions for posting new threads in this forum, I know I must first backup essential files. I hate to begin with elementary questions about a step I'm expected to complete before even opening a new thread, but I have a few questions about backing up my laptop.

I've been lazy and disorganized when saving and storing files. Though much is organized and stored in libraries, a large percentage of must-retain files is not. I am obviously not a backup-savvy user, but as best I can tell, most if not all backup software expects to be told what file types to copy and where to find them. Right now, I'd probably have to spend days rename files, reorganizing them in folders and sub-folders, and relocating everything with backups in mind -- all before beginning to seek help with malware eradication, a prerequisite to running the utility that generates the logs I must paste into a first post seeking help with Win Update problems in the Windows Update forum.

Please advise if a) an image will suffice for the backup called for in the instructions for posting to this forum, and b) can you help identify and remove malware from two drives -- one being a backup drive?

Thanks

 

[Corrine]

Hi, GDT.

The best action would be to back up your computer, go through the cleaning process and then create a new, clean backup. If there are critical documents and pictures that you don't want to lose, it is also a good idea to back them up too. You can always copy them to OneDrive or DropBox. As to "must-retain files", if they are that critical, I suggest they be saved to off-line media such as USB, CD or DVD. In addition, although a system restore point is created as part of the cleanup process, it is always wise to create a fresh restore point before making changes to your computer, giving you a point of return. Thus, that is one more step you can take.

If you have any additional questions before posting the logs, please feel free to ask.

 

[Fred Garvin]

Yes, that would be the preferred method - a system image saved to an external hard drive. There are tons of backup programs available or you can use Microsoft's backup software (Click the Start button and type "backup" on a Win 7 PC). Be sure to select the option to "Include system image" when you go through the steps to configure Windows backup. You will also need a Windows installation or recovery CD in the event you need to restore the image, assuming you backed up using Windows backup.

No you cannot fully clean a virus from a backup file or system image.

Please advise if a) an image will suffice for the backup called for in the instructions for posting to this forum,

Thanks