Question : Tools for a Full OS Backup

I wish to make a full OS backup, including the entire installation and files. I used to use Linux DD to do that, but that utility includes even the free space. I want to use a tool that backs up only the occupied spaces. Is there any such tools available?

A second thing is, is there any tool that backs up only the occupied spaces AND the boot loader (other than dd-ing the entire disk)? I just don't want to do the MBR fix after restoration. Thanks.

Answer : Tools for a Full OS Backup

Yes, zeroing out the free space first can increase compression ratios tenfold.  The reason is that a string of any length consisting of nothing but zeroes can compress down to just a few bytes.  Effectively, it makes the regions of the disk that don't have any data take up practically nothing in your image.  You might further save space by defragging first, then zeroing.  But the space savings in that case would be marginal.

As far as a Linux Live CD, I would highly recommend Knoppix.  It supports mounting NTFS volumes read/write and even supports Windows' dynamic disks through the Linux LVM.  Knoppix simply rocks as far as Linux Live CD's go.