How to fully back up your Windows PC for free (even if it's working properly today)

If you've ever had to deal with a dying computer, you know the challenge of ensuring you have a good backup. Here's how I use CloneZilla to do just that.

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ZDNET's key takeaways

• A system image can save you from disaster.
• System imaging backs up your entire PC -- OS and all.
• Clonezilla is a free tool to create system images.

Have you ever had that sickening feeling in your gut when you know your computer is just days or weeks away from dying an untimely death? I've been there several times over the decades. 

When the eventuality comes to pass, unless you have a good backup of your data, you could be in for a long and frustrating uphill battle.

Also: The best Linux distributions for beginners

Having your data backed up is ...