2 computers - avoid 2nd format

[scofield]

i have 2 desktops, just formated one and wanted to do the same with the other.

i was wondering... what if i just copy/paste ALL "Documents and Settings", "Program Files" and "Windows" Folders from one pc to the other?

[harrycary]

So just format the 2nd computer.

Cutting and pasting files from one to the other won't work.

You can still have potential problems with your registry. It willl be in the
same condition as before.

Seems to be a lame approach to shortcut a simple process like formatting.

It's easy enough (if using WinXP, you didn't state the O/Ss you're working with),
to use the "files and settings" wizard to back up your system.

Please be more clear of your intent and provide more details so someone here can steer you
in the right direction.

[zapjb]

If you were running Linux that would work.

But not in the doze.

[Enigma271828]

lol scofeild that is funny. it would be cool if it were that easy. i tried backing up my documents and settings folder and it wouldn't allow me to copy and paste because some files we currently being used. i didn't try in safe mode though.

[scofield]

So just format the 2nd computer.

Cutting and pasting files from one to the other won't work.

You can still have potential problems with your registry. It willl be in the
same condition as before.

Seems to be a lame approach to shortcut a simple process like formatting.

It's easy enough (if using WinXP, you didn't state the O/Ss you're working with),
to use the "files and settings" wizard to back up your system.

Please be more clear of your intent and provide more details so someone here can steer you
in the right direction.

what i wanted was to avoid 2nd format... it takes too long...

[Enigma271828]

if you are installing windows xp, you can just do a quick format... it doesn't take that long.

[scofield]

what if i use Symantec Norton Ghost?

[mbucari1]

what if i use Symantec Norton Ghost?

should work. My school uses that to image all the HDD's in the labs. It will be an exact copy of what you have. Also, ghost defragments as it restores, so might perform better too. I've never used it, but I have used a program called retrospect which does the same thing.

[zapjb]

Ime using ghost HEAVILY can corrupt XPs MBR. I used to use it 5-25x week. And eventually that happened. And for other as well.

But never once with Acronis MigrateEasy.

Just my .02.