Simpler Reformat?

[The_Otter]

I just reformatted an xp computer and a vista computer. Did all the updates, and installed my necessary programs. So I now have them just the way I like them. Is there a way right now to make any type of a backup disc or something so if I need to reformat again I can save myself some headache? To be more specific, is there a way that next time I reformat, i can arrive at this exact point that I am at now? With updates in place, programs installed etc.

Thanks

[Nuclear Krusader]

You'd need to image the disk in its current state using a program such as Acronis True Image

[JJD2207]

I would also create a manual restore point using system restore right away. So if the problem in the future is small, you won't have to do a full reformat but can instead do a system restore to that point in time.

[Nuclear Krusader]

Unlike an image, though, System Restore can be infected by malware, rendering it useless. As a matter of fact, in order to clean a viral infection one has to disable System Restore -destroying all restore points- just to prevent the malware from reinstalling itself.