Need recommendation for backup software that will boot from USB thumb drive

[dbz007]

I'm sorry if this has already been discussed. I tried to search but didn't find exactly what I was looking for.

I’m setting up two separate computers for my parents who live in a different state. They’re not very computer literate so troubleshooting can be a pain sometimes even though I have Logmein setup on it.
What I want to do is setup the computer fully installed with just the basics they’ll need, ie: Windows7, Flash, Java, Word, Excel, Antivirus, etc.
Then I want a program to backup that entire installation and put it on USB thumb drive. So in 6-9months, when their computer starts getting sluggish from all the websites they go to, they can just pop in the USB thumb drive and it will restore that backup.

From reading online, it looks like acronis true image can do this?
Are there any other alternatives that are free or better?
I don’t mind paying if it’ll give me what I need.

Thanks for you help!

 

[bigdogchris]

Macrium Reflect Free Edition can be ran from a USB. I also hear good things about Todo Backup Free.

 

[tmillszero1]

Just use Windows backup to create your image, then use a windows repair disk (Sans USB drive) to restore drives and system state and badda-bing. (Even better it is free!)

here's a linky to further assist you:

http://mintywhite.com/windows-7/7maintenance/windows-wont-load-system-repair-disc-fix-pc/