Essential software to have if PC breaks down?

[TheSwede]

Hi all,

I have got my hands on two USB Flash Drives, one 8Gb and one 16GB. They are both Ready Boost Enable (not sure if that is of importance but thought I mention it).

On one of them I want essential programs that you might need if your PC/laptop crashes and you need them accessible.

So, what programs would you suggest? Such as Spyboot Search and Destroy, any AV programs, etc etc... What do you have for emergencies on your USB Drives?

One the second one I was thinking of maybe have Win7 on so I could use it for re-installations.. think I read somewhere that you can do that from a USB Flash Drive? If I can, could someone please point me in the right direction for more information? And should I use the 16GB or 8GB for it?

Thank you all for any and all suggestions and advice that you can give me, much appreciated!

 

[TheSwede]

Thank you for all your suggestions guys, going to start searching for the programs I don't already have!

I have the ultimate boot cd, ubuntu and W7 on a memory stick in my laptop bag for emergencies.

For hardware issues:

- Ultimate Boot CD (with Memtest & HDD diags)
- Windows 98 boot floppy / CD
- Bootable version of Ubuntu on CD
- Spinrite for (possible) data recovery
- Eurosoft PC Check

For software issues:

- MBAM
- Spybot S&D
- Hijack-This
- Javacool's Spyware Blaster
- Modified HOSTS file
- Virus definitions for 5 or 6 of the most popular AVs
- Auslogics Disk Defrag
- Ccleaner

Hmm ok, never used Ubuntu but since some of you are recommending it, what exactly does it do and why is it so good? I am guessing if I have to use it I have to install it first, if so, would it install over my Win7 installation if I do have a problem and have to use it?

Also, the Ultimate Boot CD I am guessing you mean the Ultimate Boot CD for Windows? Yes, since I am using Win7 I mean.. or do you use the Linux version if you got seriouse problems with your computers?

Sorry if it is noob questions, but thought I ask before I ahve to use them and maybe muck things up even worse!