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Disk cloning is the process of copying the contents of one computer hard disk to another disk or to an "image" file. This may be done straight from one disk to another, but more often, the contents of the first disk are written to an image file as an intermediate step, then the second disk is loaded with the contents of the image. Typically, this is done for archiving purposes, to restore lost or damaged data, or to move wanted data into a new disk, though other reasons also exist. Unlike standard copying functions, disk cloning involves copying hidden and in-use files, and thus presents special challenges, as those types of files are typically not available for copying. Additional complications arise when the process is used for networked computers, as the network must be able to distinguish between different computers. Post-cloning operations may be necessary to address these and other issues. ==Common Uses== There are a number of notable uses for disk cloning software. These include: *Reboot and restore – a technique in which the disk of a computer is automatically wiped and restored from a "clean", master image, which should be in full working order and should have been swept for viruses. This is used by some cybercafes and some training and educational institutes, and helps ensure that even if a user does misconfigure something, downloads inappropriate content or programs, or infects a computer with a virus, the computer will be restored to a clean, working state. The reboot and restore process can either take place irregularly when a computer shows signs of malfunctioning, on a regular basis (e.g., nightly) or even, in some cases, every time a user logs off, which is the safest approach (although that does involve some downtime). Notable third party applications that provide reboot and restore are Drive Vaccine and Deep Freeze. *Provisioning new computers – Provisioning with a standard set of software so that a new user is ready to go straight away with a complete application suite and does not have to waste time installing individual applications. This is often done by original equipment manufacturers and larger companies. *Hard drive upgrade – An individual user may use disk copying (cloning) to upgrade to a new, usually larger, hard disk. Recently more users use cloning to move to the faster Solid State Drive SSD. Disk cloning is also useful when reconditioning an SSD.〔http://macperformanceguide.com/Storage-SSD-Reconditioning.html〕 *Full system backup – A user may create a comprehensive backup of their operating system and installed software. *System recovery – An OEM can provide media that can restore a computer to its original factory software configuration. *Transfer to another user – A system sold or given to another person may be reset by reloading a known, previously-saved image that contains no personal files or information. 抄文引用元・出典: フリー百科事典『 ウィキペディア（Wikipedia）』 ■ウィキペディアで「Disk cloning」の詳細全文を読む スポンサード リンク
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