If you have ever wondered how to partition a hard drive or retrieve files, you probably need to invest in some software tools.
The expression "software tools" is an indication of what these useful applications are all about.
They allow the technician to fine tune a computer to achieve maximum performance and optimum use.
The problem is that one size, or configuration, of computer does not fit all users.
It may be useful for one user to have two or more computers side by side, identical in every way. Another may need ten or 20 virtual drives to simplify data storage.
Whatever your requirements, if they are not covered by the standard Windows operating system you will have to invest in specialist software tools to help create your ideal digital workplace.
Symantec and Power-Quest are leading developers of software tools. Both have a range of products to handle all kinds of eventuality.
There are some overlaps but, between them, these two offer a reasonably comprehensive range of applications suitable for someone starting to get to grips with advanced computer techniques.
Symantec's Norton Utilities is probably one of the best-known collections of software tools in the world and should be on any computer enthusiast's shelf.
Applications within it include Speed Disk, which can significantly increase the speed of your computer by moving your most-needed files to the front of the disc for easier loading, and Norton Disk Doctor, which detects and repairs hard disc problems.
Software tools can also be used as a preventative measure.
Norton System Doctor finds potential disc and system problems and can be set to automatically prevent problems developing.
Wipe-Info permanently deletes the contents of selected files and folders from your hard drive. In these security-conscious times, it is useful to make sure your confidential data remains secret when you dispose of an old computer.
PowerQuest have developed Drive Copy, Partition Magic and Drive Image to handle disc cloning, partitioning and backups.
Drive Copy allows you to copy the entire contents or selected portions of your hard drive on to a new one. All the settings, preferences and every byte of data will be transferred.
Partition Magic allows you to create partitions, or virtual drives, on your existing hard drive without damaging existing data. You can set up your data storage space to keep dissimilar operating systems separate from each other.
Drive Image is a disc cloning tool which makes short work of backups, disaster recovery and system upgrades. Imagine what would happen if your office computers were destroyed in a fire.
It could take weeks to get fully operational again. Software and hardware needs to be configured, data restored and settings adjusted.
Think how easy it would be just to drop a CD into the drive and have your old system re-installed in minutes, complete with data.
Norton also markets a disc cloning tool, called Ghost, which performs a similar function.
It would pay to look at both products if you are considering going down this route for your backups.
Software tools can be very useful, but they are very powerful and could damage your system if used incorrectly.
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