create a bootable file for the USB without deleting the entire external storage
create a bootable file for the USB without deleting the entire external storage
I plan to build a bootable USB HDD to duplicate a raw system image onto a partition on that drive, enabling data recovery work.
I’m considering starting with OSFClone on the bootable disk, but OSFC can only write to a full disk, not individual partitions, and doing so would erase all data from the target drive as intended.
An alternative is Hiren's Boot and its associated tools, which seem capable of writing to partitions.
However, OSFClone seems the best fit for my needs; is there any method to install it onto a single partition instead?
Also, in case my explanation was unclear:
I have partitioned an external HDD
I aim to create a bootable cloning tool that doesn’t format the entire drive, so it won’t overwrite everything.
OSFClone fits my use case perfectly—it only writes to the whole disk, not a partition.
Do I need to switch to another solution? It’s also possible to burn the device onto a 4.7GB DVD, but I’m not sure if such media is available.
You may explore options that launch boot isos via USB files when installation isn't possible, such as these two tools.
Universal USB Installer – Top Bootable USB Solutions (UUI)
Universal USB Installer (UUI) Bootable USB Software: Launch from USB Windows installers, Live Linux ISOs, and system recovery utilities. USB boot is straightforward.
www.pendrivelinux.com
Rufus – Official Site (Download, Latest Releases)
Rufus is a compact app that generates bootable USB drives, enabling installation or execution of Microsoft Windows, Linux, or DOS. With minimal steps and a few clicks, Rufus simplifies the process of installing a new OS on your machine...
rufus.ie
However, interpreting the description suggests this is merely a script for dd, allowing you to copy exact files from any Linux distribution using dd for forensic purposes.
You may explore options that launch boot isos via USB files when installation isn't possible, such as these two tools.
Universal USB Installer – Top Bootable USB Solutions (UUI)
Universal USB Installer (UUI) Bootable USB Software: Launch from USB Windows installers, Live Linux ISOs, and system recovery utilities. USB boot is straightforward.
www.pendrivelinux.com
Rufus – Official Site (Download, Latest Releases)
Rufus is a compact app that generates bootable USB drives, enabling installation or execution of Microsoft Windows, Linux, or DOS. With minimal steps and a few clicks, Rufus simplifies the process of installing a new OS on your machine...
rufus.ie
However, interpreting the description suggests this is merely a script for dd, allowing you to copy exact files from any Linux distribution using dd for forensic purposes.