Full Guide: How to Ghost Copia Hard Disk

What is Ghost Copy?

Ghost Copy, sometimes known as cloning, is a software-driven method for backing up data. It essentially takes all the information from a computer's hard drive and compresses it into a single file or a set of files called an "image." This image includes everything on the computer, such as programs and settings.

You can then ghost copia hard disk to another server or hard drive for safekeeping. When necessary, the software can also restore the ghost image back to its original state.

Why Ghost Clone Disk?

The main aim of a ghost image is to facilitate the migration of a system onto other systems or to provide a fast and efficient method for system restoration.

Ghost imaging is frequently employed for swiftly configuring batches of notebooks, tablets, or servers. It also serves as a valuable tool for migrating data from one disk or PC to another, such as transferring data from a traditional hard disk to a faster solid-state drive (SSD).

Can Norton Ghost Clone Disk?

Norton Ghost was once so widely recognized that even today, many people still use the term "ghost" to describe the process of cloning or imaging a hard drive. However, it was discontinued in 2013 because it couldn't keep up with the evolving technology landscape. While you can still find Norton Ghost 15 available for download on the internet (with a 30-day free trial), it may not be fully compatible with the latest operating systems and devices. If you're willing to give it a try, here's how to use Norton Ghost.

Luckily, here are some excellent alternatives emerge, AOMEI Backupper is a case in point.

Best ghost clone software for Windows

AOMEI Backupper Standard is a versatile backup, restore, and cloning software tailored for Windows users. It boasts compatibility with all Windows operating systems, including Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, and 7. What sets it apart is its robust set of features, surpassing those of Norton Ghost, and the best part is that it's available for free. Some distinguished features are listed for you:

▶You have the flexibility to opt for a full disk clone or select specific partitions for ghost imaging. 
▶In many scenarios, the destination disk might not have the same storage capacity as the source disk, and that's perfectly fine. AOMEI Backupper defaults to copying only the sectors that are in use, which enables you to clone a larger HDD to a smaller SSD without any issues. Furthermore, if necessary, you also have the option to perform a bit-by-bit copy of the hard drive using its sector-by-sector clone mode.
▶Regarding image backup, this software provides versatile options, including File Backup, Partition Backup, System Backup, and Disk Backup. It can also backup SSDs and HDDs, it’s extremely excellent Samsung T7 SSD backup software as well.

Step-by-step tutorial: Ghost clone hard disk

How to ghost copy a hard drive? Download the software and I’ll show you how:

Step 1. Launch this software and go to Clone > Disk Clone.

★Note: The Standard edition only supports cloning non-system disks. If you want to clone a disk containing OS, please upgrade to higher editions such as AOMEI Backupper Professional.

Step 2. Then choose the Source hard drive you want to clone and hit Next. And then specify the target hard drive and choose Next to continue.

Step 3. Then confirm by choosing Start Clone to Ghost Copia hard disk.

​​★Tip: If your target disk is SSD, you can make use of the SSD Alignment to improve its performance.

Conclusion

That’s all about ghost copia hard disk. While Norton Ghost is indeed a reliable tool for computer backup, restore, and cloning, it does come at a cost. Fortunately, there's a noteworthy alternative available in the form of AOMEI Backupper Standard. What's more, this free software offers comprehensive backup solutions to safeguard your data effectively.