NTBackup

NTBackup

NTBackup is the built-in backup utility included with Windows NT 3.51, NT 4.0, Windows 2000, Windows XP and Windows Server 2003. It allows users to back up their data and restore it in the event of system failure or data loss. Starting with Vista it was replaced by Windows Backup, and Microsoft released a restore-only utility for reading old BKF files.

NTBackup provides a reliable and easy-to-use method of backing up critical system data.

Features:

• Automated Backups: NTBackup works with Task Scheduler, so that data is backed up regularly without having to manually initiate the process.

• Backup Types: NTBackup supports normal, copy, incremental, differential and daily backups.

• Data Restoration: NTBackup can restore data from backups created with the software, allowing users to easily recover lost or corrupted data.

• Incremental Backups: NTBackup supports incremental backups, which only back up files that have been changed since the last backup was performed. This helps to reduce the amount of time spent on backups.

• System State: NTBackup can back up the registry, boot files, COM+ database and, on servers, Active Directory.

• Scheduling: NTBackup allows users to schedule backups at specific times or on a regular basis.

• Logging: NTBackup can log all backup activities, allowing users to easily track the progress of their backups.

• Backup Media: NTBackup supports tapes, removable disks and BKF files on hard drives; it cannot write to CDs directly.

• Flexibility: NTBackup allows users to customize their backups, so they can select specific files or folders to back up.

• Operating System Support: NTBackup is part of Windows NT, 2000, XP and Server 2003; Vista and Windows 7 only get the restore utility.

• Batch File Support: NTBackup can be used in batch files, which can be used to automate the backup process.

• Network Shares: NTBackup can back up data from shared folders on other computers of the network.

• Command Line Support: NTBackup can be used with the command line for advanced users who want to customize their backups.

• Volume Shadow Copy: NTBackup supports Volume Shadow Copy, which allows users to back up open files on a computer that is running.

• Backup Verification: NTBackup can verify that backups have been successful, ensuring that the data is backed up properly.

• Automated System Recovery: In Windows XP and Server 2003, the ASR wizard helps restore a failed system from backup.