XP Reinstall and Backup of files

1. Sorry if this has been covered. I looked through a few pages in this section and didn't see anything...

2. I want to format my hard drive and do a fresh install of XP. However, I don't want to lose some files. The documents will all fit on my jump drive, but I don't have an easy and economical solution for the music and video files. Is there a way to backup these files?

Thanks in advance,

semperlepidus

 

Consider doing a Parallel install of XP. You can do that without reformatting the partition and having to do backups of personal files. All your old files will remain intact. Of course you need to have the free drive space for the new install. Then after you get the new install going, you can delete the old Windows folder.

Read more about parallel installing XP.

Google will turn up other links if you need them.

 

What I think would be better saftey ( overall ) for the files you wish to save is to have either a second HD or PARTITION the existing.

Then backup copys can be made AND STORED someplace other than the C: drive. Then you can do as you wish with the C: drive and still have your files saftly stored.

I feel strongly that have everything all on one drive ( partition ) is not in our best interest.

Also. If you do infact have a CD burner you can but them there are. Then they for sure would be safe.

BillyBob

 

Thanks for the guidance. I thought about both a partition and a parallel install. Is it possible to partition the hard drive without a program like Norton's Partition Wizard? I'm trying to do this on my current budget of <$0.

Some guidance for partitioning would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

Yes, but it has a higher degree of difficulty that most casual users care to master.

Ranish Partition Manager is one such program. It does a beautiful job but takes several hours to learn the hot licks needed.

Then it helps to have blind determination and nerves of steel to accomplish the task.

The Parallel Installation is much easier and safer.