Frustration Dept.

An external HDD is a great way to backup your data for moving to another computer.

I have two units I use regularly to back up customer data before performing any possibly destructive work on their P.C.s'

Applications need to be installed.

I would look at a new computer as an opportunity to leave behind the accumalated crap that you no longer need.

I format and reload whatever desktop I am using every 12 to 24 months. Look at it like spring cleaning. Nobody really wants to do it but you will be pleased with the results.

I You are moving from an XP machine you can use Files and Settings transfer to move your My Documents folders, Favorites list etc. to a new XP or Vista Machine. Look in help and support for more information.

Don't count on it to get all of your data. I would still manually back up any and all data directories seperately. (Better safe than sorry)

I keep a folder that I give a specific name to on my C: drive. Within that folder, I have a file structure that includes things like Images, Funnies, Research, etc- all the files that I care about. I also have folders that include the entire contents of software CDs that I have loaded on the computer.

I can back this folder up monthly by copying it to an external hard drive. The external drive is a USB device and is easily recognized by both my computer and my partner's computer. We each have a folder and we both use the device for back up.

If you want to carry a program over to the new computer, you will want to install from CD. Your new system will come with an operating system and will likely have the drivers you need for the unit itself but you will have to re-install your printer drivers, office productivity software and games.

You will want to be careful here- you likely use XP today but any computer you purchase from a consumer outlet is likely to have Vista. You may have compatibility problems with your older stuff. You can order business class computers with XP still and that may be a better way for you to go.

Any additional questions, just ask.

Good luck!

Which will allow you to create an image of your HD which you can restore on your new computer.

But rememeber that you would still ahve to go through and reinstall things like drivers - unless you are using the same video card, sound card etc from your old box.

Personally I just back up the data and reinstall the apps.

James