Windows 10: Windows 10 system image quadruple the size of system

Hi everyone,

There seems to be a lot of these kinds of questions on the net but none have very satisfying answers, and I was hoping someone out there can help.

I'm trying to create a backup system image using the Backup and Restore function in Windows 10. While going through the backup wizard, it says it will use about 14 GB of space but ends up using around 60 GB. I have tried this twice with the same results.

Here are some things you may want to know:
- system size 13.3 GB out of 250 SSD (only system drive, data on second drive)
- did not checkbox data drive to be included in backup (final sizes wouldn't match anyway, data drive too big)
- tried deleting and creating new volume on drive, then creating image but still the same
- have the very latest Windows 10 Home updates

If I delete the newly-created Windows Backup folder, there is still 45 GB left on the new, backup drive, yet the drive is empty. Even showing hidden files and folders doesn't reveal anything.

I have done this image backup numerous times on the same system - what is essentially the same basic installation of Windows 10. Except this time, this system drive has the latest updates.

Anyone else experiencing this or know what's happening?

:)

 

System Image failure with error: The system image restore failed. Error details: The parameter is incorrect (0x80070057)" on Windows 10

Here's my issue in a nutshell. Had an issue with my HP Envy 17 Leap Motion. I have Windows 8.1 upgraded to 10. Made a system image disk on an external hard drive and sent the unit back to HP for repair. HP had to replace the motherboard and some other small
issues. Got the system back and attempted to re-load the system image disk and got the following messages - "The system image restore failed. Error details: The parameter is incorrect (0x80070057)"

Tried to do a recovery and got this message:

"Your PC/Device needs to be repaired

A required device isn't connected or can't be accessed.

Error code: 0x000000f

You'll need to use recovery tools. If you don't have any installation media (like a disc or USB device, contact your PC administrator or PC/Device manufacturer."

(btw...I have installation DVD and a USB recovery drive)

Next it was suggested I reset the PC. I got this message:

"The drive where Windows is installed is locked. Unlock the drive and try again."

Have no clue how to do that.

I hope I've give you enough information to offer a suggestion.

Original title: System Image failure

 

System Image failure with error: The system image restore failed. Error details: The parameter is incorrect (0x80070057)" on Windows 10

Hi,

Thank you for posting in Microsoft Community, we appreciate your interest in Windows 10.

I understand that you are unable to reload the system image disk after getting the laptop from the repair shop.

As you have created a system image before making any hardware changes, I would like to inform that: the supporting files for the new hardware wouldn't be present on the system image. Also, wouldn't match with the existing system files.

System image doesn't contain any of your data, it restore your computer using a system image file. The system image overwrites your computer's state and files.

I suggest you to use an ISO file for Windows 10, try the reinstall Windows 10 and check if it helps.

I recommend you to refer to the Microsoft article: Recovery options in Windows 10

Section: Use installation media to reinstall Windows 10

I would like to inform that on Windows 8.1, the product key would be pre-injected on the Motherboard. As you have changed the hardware (Where product key will be installed), you will face activation issues.

I suggest you to refer to: Activation in Windows 10 in case of such situations.

Section: Activating Windows 10 after a hardware configuration change

Hope it help. Kindly update the status of this issue, we will be happy to help you further.

 

Regulars on this forum generally recommend use of Macrium Reflect Free as their image backup tool of choice. It is far superior (faster, small images, very reliable, easy to use etc.). Many guides on web and youtube.

 

Seconded. Periodically people report obscure problems related to the very basic Windows Backup and Restore. You just don't want your backup process to be unreliable. Go 3rd party.

 

Thanks for the reply.

Are there any limitations in Macrium Reflect Free? While I was researching backup programs a while back, I feel like there was something I didn't like about it from other people's descriptions. I can't remember. Are there ads in it since it's free?

 

No it is ad free. (imo) To quote Tina T. "Simply the best, better than all the rest".

See results of recent poll.


Solved Tell your backup software, win Macrium Reflect Home license! - Page 7 - Windows 10 Forums

 

OK, thanks. I'll try it out.

 

I second that MR is the best and the free version is more than adequate for most users.