Backing up WinXP virtual disk

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heafnerj

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I'm running WinXP under Parallels Desktop with no problems. To guard against future disasters, I'd like to keep a backup of my WinXP virtual disk. It doing so as simple as burning a copy of the appropriate file on the Mac to a CD or DVD?

Joe
 
heafnerj said:
I'm running WinXP under Parallels Desktop with no problems. To guard against future disasters, I'd like to keep a backup of my WinXP virtual disk. It doing so as simple as burning a copy of the appropriate file on the Mac to a CD or DVD?

Joe
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Yes, but I'd be surprised if it would fit on a CD. Check the size (or span) before burning. You need to copy the .hdd file(s). The rest you can easily recreate.

If you can't get your "C" .hdd under 4.7 GB, back up to your internal HD or an external HD or split your system into two disks.

To split your system, create another .hdd file and attach it to your VM. Move enough data to the second disk to get the size down. Then run Parallels Compressor on the original "C" drive to shrink it. Then back up on two DVDs. (Make a local HD copy before running Compressor).
 
The other tip I would give is to 'Shutdown' Parallels before you make the backup.

I used this same method when running VPC and had some 'glitches' when I tried to restore from a backed up VPC disk which had been in a 'saved state'.

Shutdown, close Parallels and then copy your winxp folder to an external hard disk.

Robin
 
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