Frequently Asked Questions

How is system state backup useful?

A system state backup creates a backup file containing critical system components such as system files, registry, boot files, and configuration data. This backup can be used to restore essential system components in the event of a system crash or failure, helping to recover system functionality without a full system rebuild.

Does IDrive^® 360 support system state backup and what is included in the backup?

Yes, IDrive 360 supports system state data backup.

The following components are backed up:

For all systems:

• Boot files
• COM + class registration database
• Registry

For domain controllers:

• Active Directory (NTDS)
• System Volume (SYSVOL)

If the system is a certificate server, then the related data is also backed up.

What are the supported operating systems for system state backup?

IDrive 360 supports system state backup on the following operating systems:

Client operating systems:

• Windows 7
• Windows 8
• Windows 10
• Windows 11.

Server operating systems:

• Windows Server 2008
• Windows Web Server 2008
• Windows Server 2008 R2
• Windows Server 2012
• Windows Home Server 2012
• Windows Server 2016
• Windows Server 2019
• Windows Server 2022
• Windows Server 2025

Note: System state backup is not a replacement for a full disaster recovery solution, which includes backing up the entire system and creating the recovery media.

How do I perform a system state backup?

To perform a system state backup,

1. Sign in to the IDrive 360 desktop application and click 'Server Backup'. A slider menu will appear.
2. Click 'System State'. The System state backup/restore console appears, with 'System state backup' selected by default.
   
3. Select 'Online Backup', 'Local Backup', or 'IDrive^® 360 Express™ Backup'.

   Note:

   • For ‘Local Backup’ or ‘IDrive^® 360 Express™ Backup’, specify the local backup location.
   • ‘Online Backup’ stores data on the IDrive 360 cloud, while ‘Local Backup’ and IDrive^® 360 Express™ Backup’ store data on the local drive.
   
4. Specify a temporary path for the local backup of system-related components.

   Note: Once the local backup is initiated, a '.ServerBackup' folder is auto-created.

5. Click 'Schedule Now'.
   
6. The 'Scheduler’ screen appears, where you can schedule the backup for a future date and time or perform an immediate system state backup.
   

Should I overwrite the last system state with the new version?

No. It is recommended to retain two or more versions. This ensures that if the latest system state becomes corrupted, you can restore from an earlier version.

Do I need to close all running applications or programs to perform a system state backup?

No. You do not need to close the applications or programs running on your machine while the system state backup is in progress.

What is the format of the system state data backup file?

The system state data is backed up in the standard Windows format. On Windows systems, the backup is stored in the ‘IDSystemStateData’ folder.

On successful completion of system state backup, I see a folder named 'IDSystemStateData' in my IDrive^® 360 account. What is it?

The ‘IDSystemStateData’ folder is created during the system state backup operation. It contains all the backed-up system state data in standard Windows format.

Can I remove the temporary system state backup folder from my local computer after the backup is completed?

Yes. You can remove the temporary system state backup folder from your local computer after the system state backup has been successfully completed to your IDrive 360 account.

Can I add or modify files in the 'IDSystemStateData' folder?

No. Adding or modifying files in the ‘IDSystemStateData’ folder is not recommended. Any changes to the contents of this folder can adversely affect system state restore operations.

How do I restore system state backup components to the original operating system drive?

To restore system state backup components to the original operating system drive,

1. Boot the system using a bootable CD and open the command prompt.
2. Use the xcopy command to copy the required system state backup files and folders to the original operating system drive.

For example, the ‘IDSystemStateData’ folder may contain Windows, ProgramData, Program Files, and other system-related folders. You can copy them using commands such as:

Note:

• Drive D: is an operating system drive.
• System state backup components should only be restored to the original system.
• For restoring system state and its components on a Domain Controller, use Directory Services Restore Mode (DSRM). Refer to the relevant FAQ for detailed instructions.

How do I obtain or copy the logs from the System State Restore tool?

1. After the restore is complete, open the Command Prompt.
2. Use the xcopy command to copy the IDrive 360 folder to your USB drive.

Example:
If your USB drive letter is Y:, run the following command:

xcopy "C:\ProgramData\IDrive360" "Y:\IDrive360" /s /e /i

Is it possible to restore the backed-up system state components using IDrive^® 360?

Yes. IDrive 360 supports the restoration of backed-up system state components. A full system state restore allows recovery of critical system configuration data, including the registry, boot files, COM+ database, system files, and Active Directory (for Domain Controllers).

Before initiating the restore, review the Restore Prerequisites, important considerations, and the disclaimer before initiating the restore process.

Restore Instructions for Domain Controllers

1. Boot the system into Directory Services Restore Mode (DSRM).
2. Log in using the DSRM administrator account.
3. Launch the restore tool as an administrator. Download the IDrive 360 System State Restore tool here.
4. Browse and select the 'IDSystemStateData' backup folder.
   
5. Click 'Restore Now' and confirm the action.
6. Once the restore is complete, reboot the system into normal mode.

How do I reschedule the system state Backup?

When you schedule a system state backup, IDrive 360 creates a backup set named ‘IDSystemstateBkset’.

To reschedule,

1. Sign in to the IDrive 360 desktop application.
2. Click 'Scheduler'.
3. Select 'IDSystemstateBkset' from the 'Backup set name' dropdown.
4. Make the required changes using the checkboxes and save the schedule.

Can I select a shared or mapped drive as the temporary destination for my system state backup?

Yes, you can use a shared or mapped drive as the temporary destination for the system state backup.

Does IDrive^® 360 require specific privileges to back up system state data?

Yes, you must have administrative privileges to perform a system state data backup.

Do I require additional or external storage for the system state backup?

No. You do not need any additional or external storage to perform a system state backup using IDrive 360. However, ensure that the temporary folder specified while scheduling the backup has sufficient free space.