Windows XP partition backup

i m very much intrested in IT field in connection with this i want to make THE BAKEUP OF THE PARTITION WHERE I HAVE INSTALLED MY WINXP AND OTHER SOFTWARES. SO THAT IF WINDOW GET INFECTED BY VIRUS OR DUE TO ANY OTHER PROBLEM IS NOT BOOTED, USING THAT BAKEUP OF PARTITION I WANT TO RESTORE ALL SETTING AGAIN.
USUALLY THIS IS KNOW AS MAKING GHOST WINDOW WHICH IS INSTALLED IN 5 TO 10 MINUTS.

ANY BODY CAN HELP PLES SHARE UR KNOWLEDGE