A computing system is provided with enhanced data reliability by implementing mirroring and snapshot functionality of the system memory. In the computing system, a processor executes its programs from a first region of a physical memory. Using instructions from the system itself, or from an external console, the first region of the physical memory is periodically mirrored to a second region of the physical memory not used by the processor. This second region can be volatile or nonvolatile memory. The computing system also includes snapshot functionality by which images of the second region of the physical memory are taken at periodic intervals and stored to enable returning the system to a previous state when desired, or in the event of failure.