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Utilize Windows Vista’s Version of Time Machine: Shadow Explorer

Posted in Downloadable by Dan at 11:25 am

Hey Vista users did you know that Vista automatically makes backups of your files for you in case of deletion, kinda like Apple’s Time Machine? Well it does with a feature called “Shadow Copy.”

In Windows Vista, the rewritten backup utility also uses Shadow Copy to manually backup files. In addition, the Shadow Copy for Shared Folders feature is now called “Previous Versions” and has been enabled for files on standalone computers. It stores backup copies of files on local volumes using incremental snapshots and can restore them later. [Wikipedia]

But how do you access these super secret backups?

ShadowExplorer allows you to browse the shadow copies created by the Windows® VistaTM Volume Shadow Copy Service. It’s especially thought for users of the home editions, who don’t have access to the shadow copies by default, but it’s also useful for users of the other editions.

ShadowExplorer will show you available point-in-time copies that you can browse through and retrieve. Worth a try for the price. Free.

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4 Comments, Comment or Trackback

  1. Michael

    So, I grab a copy of ShadowExplorer.. Head down to the boss’s office, and use the utility when he’s not looking.. Eventually grabbing copies of private data from his machine, copying it to my usb stick..

    This sounds like a real nice service.

    Can it be disabled?

    // Did not look at their site, etc, so probably blowing smoke..

    Mar 26th, 2008

  2. loinduciel

    As far as i remember the behaviour of the shadow copy mechanism, you have to enable it on an entire volume.So it consumes a lot of storage.

    Mar 26th, 2008

  3. chad

    @Michael

    ummmm if you are gaining access to a bosses computer and are able to A. get in B. use 3rd party software C. get out without being noticed …. what software you use to rip confidential data to your thumb drive is the LEAST of said organizations worries….

    in other words, physical access to a machine of any OS = data pwnage.

    Mar 26th, 2008

  4. Stephen

    Great IF I can get Vista working long enough I might give it a try!

    Mar 26th, 2008

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