reloading a system is easier once support ends
it's done by using a completed image
on the last day of support, do the following:
- remove the current HDD from the system
- install a new HDD
- install the OS and activate
- get all the updates downloaded & installed
- configure desired settings etc.
- take a manual base full image of that install and label it as completed image "OS only"
- install and configure the software you use
- take another manual base full image and label it as completed image "Full"
- remove that HDD and box it on the shelf for when the current one dies
- install the original HDD and continue on
- verify the system is clean and free of malware etc.
- take a manual base image of the current install HDD
when the day comes for a reload on the current HDD
reload from the current image or the fresh install completed image
and it's done in a matter of minutes like 20 to 30, and not with 60 hours work
done this with win2K when support ended
and will do the same for XP in 14 months
manual base images can be done with clonezilla (which is free)
or just about and other free / paid cloning / backup system imaging software
