need some help, please

[MikeyM2005]

I am about to upgrade my motherboard and I have read that you have to repair windows after changing it. Unfortunately though my OEM computer only came with recovery disks that reset the computer back to the original factory settings!! So since I am doing the upgrades I thought it was about time I went to XP Pro so I bought a copy of XP Pro.

I just want to know whether it is better to install Pro before I do the mobo upgrade or backup all my data files and reformat my HDD and then install windows fresh when I have changed out the mobo?

any suggestions?

Also on the subject of backing up my data files are there any programs people recommend (preferably free) to use. I have a second HDD that wont be touched during the changeover so I will be backing everything up onto that.

Thanks

 

[MikeyM2005]

Thanks I will give that a try,

Do you know how the backups work? For example, I have some software on my computer that I do not have the disks for. So if I back up the folder and then restore it am I right in thinking this wont work because the program wont have been installed? It wouldnt be too much hassle to get the disks again if this doesnt work but i thought i should ask.

I live just outside Solihull (Knowle to be precise) but here at the moment it is cold, windy and cloudy! So I am quite glad I am in all day working on my computer
How long ago did you move down to Bristol? I have some friends at Uni down there at the moment and we have a great time when I go down and visit. Really nice city.

 

[MikeyM2005]

Alright then I have backed up all my documents and emails and stuff, SO i am gonna give this a go. Wish me luck!!!