Restore CD vs. Recovery CD ? what is Transfer Wizard?

[sharpwitz]

Seems like the terms Restore CD and Recovery CD are two different things.
Which is which?

I am confused as to how the big stores do data back up and recovery CDs.

I stopped by Staples and they quoted $40 for a restore CD which sounds kinda cheap for cloning? So I am wondering if they are only using the Transfer Wizard to only save files and settings?

Whereas GeekSquad is $200 for cloning, but GS also has a backup package for $100? What is GS using for back up at $100?

Also, is it better to transfer the files manually to an external HD or use the Transfer Wizard to transfer the files to the ext. HD as an image file?

 

[iisjman07]

For entire drive backups, they'll use some form of cloning program, most likely Acronis True Image or Norton Ghost. I know some stores (such as Staples I think) to which the term 'restore CD' is where modern day pc's more often that not have a recovery partition. From Windows there is usually a way where you can make a cd, incase you nuke the drive or something. A 'restore CD' is where they do this process for you.

 

[sharpwitz]

Win 7

I am playing with Win 7 RC, but have yet to try out their "create a system repair disc" or " create a system image" features. I've heard it's a bit buggy.

I heard that Vista offers this as well and was wondering if anyone had tried a backup using the Vista backup features.