Macrium Reflect - Question

Should all browsers and programs be closed before using MR ?

 

Not necessary. First thing Macrium does is create a system snapshot, a VSS, and that is the data source for your image file. It's safe to continue using your computer while the image file is being created but it isn't very sensible as at the very least you will slow your backup down.

 

I prefer to close browsers & not have any other programs running when using Macrium.
I have it set to run a backup when I’m not using the laptop.

 

That choice is not available in the free version

 

If you click on the plus sign does it not offer the option to create a backup schedule?
Ver 7 included features states scheduled backups for the free version.
https://www.macrium.com/reflectfree

 

The snip I attached states the schedules you can create. It doesn't include 'when computer not in use' or any words to that effect. Version 7.3

As the free version doesn't do incrementals I don't have any use for a schedule myself, I just do a manual system image on each machine once a month and keep the last three. I don't use MR at all for data backups, preferring other methods.

 

I schedule Full & Differential (as well as incremental). PC does have to be on (not sleeping) or it won’t run the backup. There’s no run when not in use as it will run automatically whether or not a the device is in use. I’m sorry if I gave that impression. I should’ve said I’ve set a schedule to run backup at a time when I know I’m not going to be using my laptop.
I only mentioned what I do with Macrium for the benefit of the op so he has another POV.