Methods and a computer readable medium are provided for preserving unique critical information during the data imaging process. A method of augmenting the image process is provided wherein information necessary to properly operate one or more network applications, uniquely identify a computing device on the network, or to fulfill any other similar role is acquired. The information is from time to time stored in locations of the storage device which are not partitioned or otherwise used by the computing device. Further, a computer readable medium is provided wherein one or more locations are partitioned and available for use without any significant restrictions. Additionally, a method of restoring a memory associated with a computing device connected to a network of additional computing devices is provided. Also, critical information is acquired from time to time, and the data including the identifying information are restored upon a request.