does it back up operating system?
1240464
I use a Clickfree Automatic Backup C2 500 GB USB 3.0 Portable External Hard Drive on a Macbook computer. It does not automatically back up the operating system. It automatically backs up the categories listed on it under options. It doesn't automatically backup categories directly under the disk drive (like applications) but I found that I could back up the apps by moving the files to a folder on the desktop while backing up. The folder will stay on the backup when backing up again with the apps not on the desktop. All desktop files will remain on the backup and will not be cleared when backing up again - just added to. I use a Clickfree Automatic Backup C2 500 GB USB 3.0 Portable External Hard Drive on a Macbook computer. It does not automatically back up the operating system. It automatically backs up the categories listed on it under options. It doesn't automatically backup categories directly under the disk drive (like applications) but I found that I could back up the apps by moving the files to a folder on the desktop while backing up. The folder will stay on the backup when backing up again with the apps not on the desktop. All desktop files will remain on the backup and will not be cleared when... » Read More I use a Clickfree Automatic Backup C2 500 GB USB 3.0 Portable External Hard Drive on a Macbook computer. It does not automatically back up the operating system. It automatically backs up the categories listed on it under options. It doesn't automatically backup categories directly under the disk drive (like applications) but I found that I could back up the apps by moving the files to a folder on the desktop while backing up. The folder will stay on the backup when backing up again with the apps not on the desktop. All desktop files will remain on the backup and will not be cleared when backing up again - just added to. « Show Less
1240465
The model 6C does back up the operating system, but the model 2c does not. I have a computer business and I usually recommend the 2c. It backs your data only. If you have a virus in the operating system, the 6C will back it up too. Hope this helps. By the way, most reviews of the 6c are not too good.
1298641
Yes, mainly it gives you enough time to properly shut down your system. So, it helps if you are there to do that. It also provides power-surge and power-spike protection which is critical to computer circuitry. Good safety-net when backing up large quantities of data. Shelf-life is 3 - 5 years (as stated elsewhere).
1887456
no. this is strictly an external backup drive with usb as the sole interface to the computer.
563143
I'm using it for two computers but I'm manually backing them up. I never use the built in software.
657735
Yes... I am on 7. I just use it to save critical files on. Don't fully understand the "back-up" software that is supplied with it.
439190
No it does not, however you are encouraged to generate a backup disk after placing your new computer into service. It would be nice if the seller or manufacturer provided a software repair disc. They did years ago.
1662397
A complete system backup backs up everything. Or you can specify which directories/folders that get backed up. The external harddrive comes with software to assist you with that. I think windows also have this feature as well. I hope this helps. Have a good day.
2235306
Depends on the OS. If Windows XP, Vista, 7 or 8, yes. If 8.1, no, but you can use File History/create image/backup in Windows 8.1. A smart user just spends the hour to do a fresh install though... Windows degenerates over time.
2123279
It was necessary to install the operating system in addition to my files. No problem.
2202174
if it is continuing backing up, is that the same information being made redundant or does it back up new information. MAC user with Time Machine
322550
Yes it's justs plug and play and it's recognized by any OS. I use windows backup with no problems.The drive itself is amazingly fast! I'd say it has cut hours a week in productivity.
488767
I am not sure, but I would like to think why not use it for back up of any computers.
1677409
Yes it will. It has worked wonders for me since i used it as a back up for re-installing Apple OSX 10.8 (Mountain Lion). As long as you follow instructions on partitioning it. There are plenty instructions and examples on YouTube from different tech guys showing vids on how to back up and install OS (win or mac).
341473
I would say Yes, but as soon as you have it installed be sure to format the drive. Also, be sure that you have ALL your files backed up, and get ready for a long process of updating the operating system, and your security software, only after that can you reinstall your programs and finally after that you can restore your files. I hope you have tremendous amount of patience. Good luck
970262
Yes it does that's the operating system I have believe I just plugged it in and it automatically installed
1573878
No -- and that is why I bought it -- strickly as an external storage drive. You just plug it in and use it from Finder/Windows Explorer. It contains software to use it as a backup drive, but I did not install it, nor did I have to do anything to prevent it from installing. I use it as one of my dual drives for redundant storage for my images as a photographer so I access it frequently -- it has worked flawlessly since I bought it.
2030881
Sure. it just a HDD with some free software from WD. No need to install this software or keep it on a HDD ;)