iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
The safest way to back up a DRM-free game is to download its complete offline installer from the storefront, preserve every installer part and companion file, copy the archive to at least two separate devices, and keep a record that lets you reinstall it later. For GOG purchases, GOG Support provides the “DOWNLOAD OFFLINE BACKUP GAME INSTALLERS” option. A well-made archive also includes patches, language files, manuals, serial keys, save data, configuration notes, and the runtimes or compatibility layers the game needs.
What a DRM-free backup actually preserves
A DRM-free backup is a local, reusable copy of the files needed to install and run a game without depending on a launcher or an authentication service. GOG’s developer documentation describes its DRM-free philosophy this way: games released on GOG should work regardless of GOG GALAXY authentication, whether the GOG GALAXY client is present, or whether an internet connection is available. GOG has also identified offline play, making backup copies, and reinstalling games as often as needed as key benefits of that model.
That promise applies to the DRM and installation path, not to every feature a game may offer. Multiplayer servers, cloud saves, achievements, leaderboards, account-linked bonuses, and other online-only functions can still require an internet connection. Treat the installer archive as a way to preserve the playable software and your own data, not as a guarantee that a discontinued online service will return.
Decide what belongs in the archive
Before downloading anything, make an inventory. A storefront library view is useful for discovering what you own, but it is not a complete archival record. For each title, create a record containing the following information:
#1 Best Overall
- NEARLY 2X FASTER THAN OUR PREVIOUS GENERATION(8) – move 1,000 high-res photos in under 60 seconds(6) with up to 2000MB/s transfer speeds(2).
- IP65 RATING AND UP TO 3M DROP PROTECTION(3) – protects against spills and drops.
- POCKET-SIZED – fits easily in pockets and small bags.
- SPACE TO OWN YOUR AI CONTENT – speed and capacity to download your high-res clips and photo edits.
- 256-BIT AES ENCRYPTION(4) – helps keep private files secure with password protection.
- Title, edition, expansion or collection name, and platform.
- The account or storefront from which it was obtained.
- Installer version and download date.
- Language and regional edition, if more than one is available.
- Required runtimes, compatibility layers, or launch options.
- Serial keys, activation codes, or printed instructions supplied with the purchase.
- The location of save games, configuration files, screenshots, mods, and other personal data.
- Any patches, hotfixes, language packs, manuals, maps, soundtracks, or bonus material needed to reproduce the installation.
Use one folder per game and keep the record inside that folder. A simple text or spreadsheet file is sufficient; the important property is that the information travels with the files instead of remaining only in your memory.
Download the official offline installers
Use the storefront’s offline-download control
For a GOG purchase, open GOG Support and choose the feature labeled “DOWNLOAD OFFLINE BACKUP GAME INSTALLERS.” This is the route intended for obtaining the setup files that can be stored and used independently of the GOG GALAXY client. Storefront labels and download locations can change, so confirm that you are using the current official support or library page rather than an unofficial mirror.
- Sign in to the account that owns the game.
- Open the game’s support or download area and select “DOWNLOAD OFFLINE BACKUP GAME INSTALLERS.”
- Download every setup file offered for the edition and platform you own.
- Download listed patches, language packs, manuals, bonus files, and other extras that you may need for a future installation.
- Save the files directly into the game’s archive folder, preserving the original filenames.
Some games use a multi-part installer. Do not rename parts casually, split them across folders, or keep only the first executable. The installer may require every part to be in one directory when you start setup. If the storefront supplies separate language or patch downloads, keep those beside the base installer and note the intended order in your game record.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Keep the download session reproducible
Record the date and installer version while the information is visible in the storefront. If the page displays a file size, note it. If it publishes a checksum, copy that value into the record. Store a screenshot or text note of unusual instructions, such as “install this patch after the base installer” or “use this executable for the classic version.” Storefront policies and available files can change, so the date matters when you later compare an archive with a new download.
Organize files so a future reinstall is obvious
A consistent directory layout prevents the most common archival mistake: having files but not knowing which ones belong together. One practical layout is:
Game Title - Edition (Platform)
01-Installer
02-Patches
03-Language-Packs
04-Manuals-and-Bonus
05-Saves-and-Config
06-NotesKeep all multi-part setup files in 01-Installer. Use the patch folder for official updates and write their installation order in 06-Notes. Put serial keys in a protected text file or scanned document in the same notes folder, while also retaining any original purchase record. Manuals and bonus material should remain with the title even if they are not required to launch the game; they are part of what you purchased and may explain obscure settings or compatibility requirements.
Do not rely on a folder name alone. Include the edition and platform in the name because a standard edition, deluxe edition, expansion bundle, and different operating-system build may have different files. Keep the original filenames unless a name is so long that your storage system cannot handle it; if you must shorten one, document the change.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Rank #2
- Built for Creators: Capture, edit, and transfer with ease. NVMe SSD with premium NAND Flash delivers up to 2100MB/s—perfect for 4K video, RAW photos, and gaming assets
- Record Without Limits: Direct 4K 120fps HDR recording from compatible USB-C iOS/Android phones, cameras, and tablets with supported pro apps. Ideal for high-bitrate shooting on the go
- Rugged, Reliable, Ready: Durable aluminum shell with water- and drop-proof protection. SMART monitoring and advanced error correction keep your data safe in any environment
- Works Where You Do: True plug-and-play with laptops, desktops, cameras, projectors, and more. Fully compatible with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox devices
- Pocket-Sized Power & Capacity Notice: Ultra-slim 2.85 × 1.52 × 0.40 in, 0.03 lb SSD fits any pocket or gear bag. Actual usable storage may be ~7–10% less than labeled due to system calculation differences. Supports up to 2100MB/s under ideal USB 3.2 Gen 2x2/Thunderbolt 4/5 conditions; older interfaces may reduce speeds
Verify that the backup is complete
Check files before copying
After downloading, compare the number of files and their sizes with what the storefront lists. A download that finishes early can still leave a file with a plausible name but an incomplete size. Where the publisher provides hashes, calculate a hash for the local file and compare it with the published value. A matching hash is evidence that the file was not altered or truncated; it does not prove that the game will run on every future operating system.
- Confirm that every numbered installer part is present.
- Confirm that the executable installer and its data files are in the same folder.
- Confirm that patch and language files have finished downloading.
- Open manuals and notes to make sure they are not zero-byte or obviously incomplete files.
- Record any hash mismatch and download that file again before making additional copies.
Use a manifest for large archives
For a collection with many games, create a manifest containing each relative filename, file size, and hash when available. The manifest makes later drive checks practical: you can identify a changed or missing file without opening every installer. Keep a copy of the manifest in the game folder and in your overall catalog.
Back up save games and configuration separately
The installer recreates the game program; it does not necessarily recreate your progress. Copy save games, configuration files, profiles, screenshots, and locally installed mods into 05-Saves-and-Config. Because save locations vary by game and operating system, inspect the game’s documentation and your existing installation rather than assuming that saves are beside the executable.
Preserve the original directory structure where practical. If a game stores several profiles, copy all of them and label which profile belongs to which player. Keep a plain-text note stating when the save backup was made and which game version created it. If a launcher offers cloud synchronization, do not treat the cloud copy as your only backup: export or copy a local version as well, and note whether the files were synchronized before you copied them.
Choose storage with redundancy, not just capacity
A single external drive is convenient but is not a durable backup plan. Drives can fail, be lost, or be damaged with the computer that holds the original. Keep at least two copies on separate devices and, when practical, place one copy in another location. A 3-2-1 approach—three copies, on two types of storage, with one copy elsewhere—is a useful target when the size of your library and your budget allow it.
Use a portable external SSD as the working archive
A portable external SSD in the class of a Samsung T7 Shield is suitable for a travel or desk archive because it is compact and easier to move than a full-size desktop drive. Select capacity based on the total size of your installers, patches, bonus files, and save archives, then leave room for future downloads. Keep the drive in a protective case, eject it properly, and disconnect it when it is not being updated. Portability improves convenience but also makes accidental loss possible, which is why it should not be your only copy.
Add a second device or a separate location
Make a second copy to another drive or to a separate-location storage tier. The second copy can be another external drive kept at a different location, or a cloud-storage service whose retention, size limits, and account terms you have checked. Do not assume that a cloud provider preserves files indefinitely or that a subscription will remain active; record the service and renewal details in your archive plan.
Rank #3
- Capacity Display Variance: 1TB external ssd often appears as around 931GB on Windows. MacOS can show full 1 TB capacity. This is binary calculation difference and doesn’t affect SSD hard drive actual physical storage
- 1050 MB/s Speed: Instantly access to your files with blazing-fast 10Gbps external SSD read up to 1050MB/s and write up to 1000MB/s. LED Light indicates USB SSD instant activity
- Data Security: Solid state drives S.M.A.R.T. health diagnostics and adaptive TRIM optimizing data block management ensures consistent write speeds and extends the longevity of the portable SSD
- USB-C & USB-A Cable: Both cables featuring rapid USB 3.2 Gen2, this USB SSD effortlessly bridges devices, enabling seamless cross-platform file transfers and backup between computers, smartphones, tablets and iPhone
- Always Fast: No slowdowns for large file transfers. With SLC caching (25% of current available capacity allocated as high-speed cache), this external SSD delivers steady 10Gbps for transfers within the cache capacity
| Storage arrangement | Convenience | Resilience | Best use |
|---|---|---|---|
| One internal drive | Highest | Low; a drive failure or system loss removes the archive | Temporary staging only |
| One portable external SSD | High; easy to move between computers | Better, but still a single point of failure | Primary local archive |
| Two separate drives | Moderate; requires synchronized updates | Good protection against one device failing | Practical minimum for valuable libraries |
| Local drives plus a separate-location copy | Lower; requires an additional process or service | Strongest protection against theft, fire, or local damage | 3-2-1 style long-term preservation |
When you update an archive, update the second copy too. A backup that is months behind may not contain the latest save or installer revision you care about. Keep a dated change note so you know which copy is current.
Document each title for future recovery
Your future self should be able to reinstall a game without remembering why files were separated or which runtime was required. A compact record can use this format:
| Field | Example entry to record |
|---|---|
| Title and edition | Exact storefront title, edition, expansion, or collection |
| Platform | Operating-system build or platform shown by the storefront |
| Installer | Filename, version, and download date |
| Language | Installed language and any separate language-pack filename |
| Source account | Storefront account that owns the purchase |
| Serial or key | Key location, without exposing it in an unprotected public note |
| Requirements | Required runtimes, compatibility layers, launch options, or patches |
| Save data | Backup date and the location from which saves were copied |
| Verification | File count, total size, and hashes where published |
Keep account credentials out of a plain archive note. Record the account identifier or storefront name needed to locate the purchase, but protect passwords and recovery codes using your normal password-management method.
Restore-test the archive periodically
A backup is only useful if the files can be read and the installation can be understood. Periodically choose one archived title and perform a controlled restore test. You do not need to test every game at once; rotate through the library so older files are not ignored indefinitely.
- Choose a title and copy its installer folder to a test location or a spare computer.
- Read the notes before starting and gather any listed runtimes, compatibility layers, patches, and serial keys.
- Install from the local files with the computer disconnected from the internet when the game is expected to support offline installation.
- Apply patches in the documented order and preserve the installed version information.
- Launch the game and confirm that a new local profile can be created.
- Copy a backed-up save into the documented location and confirm that it is recognized.
- Note any operating-system warning, missing runtime, display issue, or compatibility setting required for the restore.
- Update the game’s record with the result and the date of the test.
A restore test is not a promise that every feature will work forever. It tells you whether your current archive is complete enough to follow and identifies compatibility work while the details are still recoverable.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Understand compatibility and online limitations
Offline installation is not universal feature access
DRM-free status removes a copy-protection or launcher-authentication dependency; it does not recreate an online service. Expect online-only multiplayer, leaderboards, achievements, cloud synchronization, and account-based extras to require connectivity or to become unavailable if the service has ended. Document this distinction in the game record so a future reinstall is not mistaken for a failed backup.
Runtimes and operating-system support can change
Older games may depend on runtimes, libraries, display components, or compatibility layers that are not installed on a newer system. Record the requirements discovered during your restore test and keep installers or official redistributables when their licenses permit you to archive them. If a game needs a specific launch option or compatibility setting, put that instruction in 06-Notes rather than relying on a forum post you may not be able to find later.
Rank #4
- Capacity Display Variance: 500GB external ssd often appears as around 465GB on Windows. MacOS can show full 500 GB capacity. This is binary calculation difference and doesn’t affect SSD hard drive actual physical storage
- 1050 MB/s Speed: Instantly access to your files with blazing-fast 10Gbps external SSD read up to 1050MB/s and write up to 1000MB/s. LED Light indicates USB SSD instant activity
- Data Security: Solid state drives S.M.A.R.T. health diagnostics and adaptive TRIM optimizing data block management ensures consistent write speeds and extends the longevity of the portable SSD
- USB-C & USB-A Cable: Both cables featuring rapid USB 3.2 Gen2, this USB SSD effortlessly bridges devices, enabling seamless cross-platform file transfers and backup between computers, smartphones, tablets and iPhone
- Always Fast: No slowdowns for large file transfers. With SLC caching (25% of current available capacity allocated as high-speed cache), this external SSD delivers steady 10Gbps for transfers within the cache capacity
Troubleshoot common backup failures
The installer stops or reports a missing file
Check that every multi-part installer file is in the same directory and that filenames were not altered. Compare file sizes and published hashes, then download the suspect part again. If the storefront now lists a different installer revision, record the new version instead of mixing parts from different revisions.
The game installs but will not start offline
Confirm that you used the offline installer rather than a launcher stub, and review the notes for required runtimes or compatibility settings. Disconnecting from the internet can expose a dependency that was silently downloaded during an earlier installation. Restore-test the title again while documenting the exact error and the operating-system version.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteThe game starts but a feature is unavailable
Check whether the feature is online-only. Multiplayer servers, achievements, leaderboards, cloud saves, and account-linked extras may require connectivity even when the core game is DRM-free. Keep the installer archive; it can still preserve the offline portion of the game.
A save does not appear after reinstalling
Verify that you copied the correct profile and that the save was created by a compatible game version. Recheck the documented save location and preserve the original backup before trying conversions or repairs. Update the record with the version that successfully reads the save.
The primary archive drive fails
Stop writing to the failed device and use the second drive or separate-location copy. Compare its manifest with your catalog, then create a replacement second copy before resuming normal updates. This is the practical value of maintaining redundancy: recovery does not depend on repairing one damaged device.
Maintain the archive over time
Set a recurring review that fits the size of your library. During each review, verify that both copies are readable, add newly purchased installers, update save backups, and select at least one title for a restore test. Recalculate hashes or compare manifests when your storage software supports it. Replace a drive that shows errors rather than waiting for total failure.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Storefront availability, installer links, patches, and operating-system support can change. When you download a newer official installer, keep the older version if you have a reason to preserve it, label both clearly, and record which one was tested. Do not overwrite a known-good archive with an unverified download until the new files have passed your completeness checks.
A practical decision rule
Use the launcher for convenience when you want automatic updates or cloud features. Use the offline installer archive for independence and long-term recovery. The strongest arrangement uses both: a current local archive that you control, a second copy on another device or at another location, and a written record that explains how to restore the game without guessing.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
