Before reinstalling Windows, A complete list Options

[Venek]

I've had to reinstall Windows XP a couple of times in the past and found out the hard way that I needed to write down the programs and other stuff that's on my computer to download after reinstallation.

So, here goes:

I suggest burning data to a CD/DVD or saving to flash drives or, if you have one, a 2nd hard drive.

1. All important documents such as resumes, letters, financial, taxes.

2. If desired, music, pictures and movies (these take up a ton of space, especially if you have a large library, don't forget desktop pictures if you have favorites).

3. Savegames from any games you play, make a note of their locations, as well as any profiles you may have.

4. Logins and passwords. This goes without saying. A good practice would be to save a list on a txt file and ONLY have it on your removable data drive and never on your hard drive. This way, you can print it out or reference it if needed.

5. Make a list of all downloaded programs that you use: Examples: Antivirus, firewall, IM programs, Flash/Shockwave, PDF Reader, Firefox add-ons, screensavers, and other various utility/protection/maintenance programs. This is usually a pretty long list.

I think that about covers all the bases, hope it helps.

As a final recommendation, a GREAT program for wiping your hard drive clean before reinstallation is Active Killdisk: http://killdisk.com/downloadfree.htm