WinXp Program Files Backup - help

[santana]

Sorry if i seem stupid, but please tell me how can i make a back-up in WinXP so that when reilstalling Windows all the programs previously installed on this computer would remain there? I heard it in a conversation and forgot to ask afterwards and now i've got nowhere to learn about it.
Thank you.

[myth]

Create a short cut that targets: %SystemRoot%\system32\ntbackup.exe or just find the ntbackup.exe! lol...

[Stoo]

Very helpful.. not.

All that would do is back up the odd few files, or create an image of the entire install, which isn't what the santana is asking about.

To be honest it's not worth doing that sort of install because you never end up with a truely clean system, the best thing to to is keep a regular backup of your important files (work, emails, photos etc) on either recordable cd/dvd, external hdd, or even archive tape.
Then whay you do is get hold of something like Powerquest's DriveImage, or Norton's Ghost software, reformat and install windows from scratch, install all the patches/service packs, windows drivers etc, and install the basic software you use (eg office, firefox etc). Then use Ghost or DriveImage to create a self installing backup of your system and keep in in a safe place.

Then all you have to do is keep your file backups up to date, anytime you need to reinstall you just run the disc ghost or driveimage created, and copy back your backed up data.

The other ways never really work, and certainly never as well as the above method..

[myth]

It alows you to backup your intier drive.... then when in need you can use a floppy to restore the drive! But I do as stoo said... I keep all my files on storage drives...

[Stoo]

Which wasn't what the question was.