Productivity through Software Preservation
Filed under: Technology — Micheal on September 27th, 2007
No one enjoys software problems and there is an approach to computing that will significantly reduce problems or downright eliminate them. It revolves around a product by Faronics called Deep Freeze; however, the concept can hold true using other preservation software. There are several benefits to this approach:
- Your operating system, the way you want it, every boot without any waiting time
- Reduced software degradation (gradual slowness overtime)
- System runs perfect at every boot and if it starts to act up just restart it!
- No spyware, malware, adware, viruses, etc.
- Data centralization
- Makes backing up easier!
- With all data in one place, sharing data between multiple operating systems is easier.
Introduction
The computer has turned into much more than a form of communication, for some of us it is our livelihood. The solution I have comprised is not for the faint at heart. It requires a different approach in using a computer. However, once this approach is understood and continually used, the outcome is nothing other than ideal. Think productivity. For others, it might be speed, reliability, or never having to deal with spyware again.
What is the problem?
Simply stated, the problem is any kind of issue with software that might require a solution or fix resulting in loss of productivity.
What is the solution?
The problem is solved through a combination of technologies in order to provide guaranteed up-time. This is achieved through separating software and data, then utilizing a piece of software to preserve the operating system.
Concept in a nut shell
Two partitions: one holding an operating system and the other one holding data. The operating system is configured to access the data through a number of techniques. A piece of software that preserves the operating system is installed.
This solution works across multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, and Linux. It ultimately depends on the choice of software to preserve the operating system.
Step 1: Separate data from software
The easiest way to accomplish this is by creating a secondary partition to house the data. Within the data partition, directories are created that identify the data it will hold. For example, My Documents, Outlook Data, Music etc.
Step 2: Accessing the Data
There are three methods that can be employed to access data. The first is simple: the file is opened through the corresponding application. An example of this is using Microsoft Outlook, the .pst is stored on the secondary partition and then opened through Outlook.
The second method is a little more difficult but still achievable. There are certain folders that should be accessible through their shortcuts. An example of this in Windows XP would be My Documents. To change the default directory, the following can be done: Right click My Documents, click Properties, under Target click Move and select the new My Documents directory on the secondary partition.
The final method would be creating symbolic links. This can be tricky and possibly dangerous if they are removed. It can be done in just about any operating system; some require specialized software such as Winbolic for Windows XP/2000. More can be read about this method at Winbolic.
Step 3: Preserve software
The software I use and recommend is Faronics Deep Freeze. Deep Freeze supports a number of platforms and configuration varies. Once a partition is “frozen”, anything done to the partition will be reverted back to the frozen state upon reboot. Permanent changes can be made after unfreezing the drive and restarting the system. Note: Deep Freeze loads a kernel-level driver before windows; therefore, if the drive is extracted any changes made to the frozen partition would be permanent.
About Faronics DeepFreeze
Light weight, easy to install, and nearly impenetrable. I recommend reading about it’s greatness at Faronics.com.
Summary / Disclaimer
The above approach is a solution that will require tweaking and customization to solve the users particular problem. Remember, this concept is a different approach to using a computer. People generally are use to interacting and making changes that result in a permanent change. This concept is the opposite. This concept should be used at the user’s discretion. The writer is not responsible for lost of data or any loss of revenue, etc.
I have tried to write this article as open-ended as possible. Updates will be made as the technology evolves either through an additional posting or by revision. Email (mail [at] michealmorgan.com) if you have any lengthy questions, otherwise feel free to respond by making a comment.
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