Zip files (.zip or .zipx) are a great way to back up subsets of your files (for example, a directory tree with documents, source code, or photos). However, if you want to backup your entire system, WinZip is not an appropriate tool. There are some issues that currently make WinZip unsuitable as a complete system backup utility.
WinZip requires Windows to be running, because it makes numerous Windows API calls. Hence, WinZip cannot be run from the native DOS prompt. Also, Windows system files cannot be added to a Zip file while in use by Windows. Then when it comes to software programs, they usually require reinstallation after a system backup since there may be specific system settings required for each program.
Because of these issues, WinZip is not meant to be used as a system backup tool.
The WinZip Pro Job Wizard feature IS an excellent tool to backup your data. It allows you to automate the backing up of user specified files and folders. It also allows you to schedule a data backup based on specific criteria and have an email message sent to you when it completes.
Please see our web site for more information on the Job Wizard.
