How to copy c drive to external hard drive on Windows 11/10?

How to copy c drive to external hard drive? Using Manual File Copy with System Files Exclusion to copy your C: drive to an external hard drive can be done, but it requires careful planning and understanding of what files to include or exclude. Here's an overview:

How to copy C drive to external hard drive:

1. Use File Explorer with Exclusions: 
Open File Explorer.
Navigate to C:.
Manually select and copy only user data folders, such as:
    Users\YourUsername\Documents
    Users\YourUsername\Pictures
    Users\YourUsername\Videos
    Any other personal or data folders.

Exclude system folders like:
    Windows
    Program Files
    Program Files (x86)
    ProgramData
    System Volume Information

2. Enable Hidden and System Files:
    In File Explorer, go to View > Options > Change folder and search options.
    Under View tab, select "Show hidden files, folders, and drives."
    Uncheck "Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)."
    Be cautious when handling these files.

3. Use Robocopy for Advanced Copying: 
For more control, use the command line tool Robocopy with appropriate switches to exclude system files.
Example command:

robocopy C:\ D:\Backup /E /XF "Windows" "Program Files" "Program Files (x86)" /XD "System Volume Information"

    Note: Adjust paths and switches as needed.