How do I copy an image in VMWare?

(I know this is a really noob-ish question, but I'm a noob-ish VMWare user.)

I see where there's a function to clone a VM, but that appears to clone its settings (CPUs, memory, disk space). I'm hoping for, essentially, a complete backup including the OS that I can store somewhere for an emergency. Do I need disk imaging software? Or is there a way to just copy an image.

Solution 1:

The VMWare images are just files. You can copy the files provided they are not in use (actively running). If you copy the files without using the clone feature, the next time you open the image, it will ask if it's a clone or a copy - just answer "copy". Simple as that.