Windows profile saver for system re-install

I received the unhappy news that I need to do a fresh reinstall of my WinXP OS. I have had several suggestions about how to minimize the labor after doing so but am not sure I understand their differences or potentials for success.

1. Save existing C:\documents & settings. After reinstalling all the existing programs, and thier updates, manually copy all application profiles to the new C:\documents & settings.

2. Use the Windows profile saver (?) to save and restore the profiles.

3. The backup program I am using has a provision for backing up application settings.

Any input would be appreciated.

Chuck

 

Chuck, I can't help but think you may corrupt your planned clean install if you aren't careful. Generally speaking, it's better to leave all previous user profiles behind and create new ones on the new install. Some of your present problems may lie in those files.

If you still want to save those files, it's much easier to do it using a disk imaging software that will save the entire partition to separate media. That way you will have it all to pick and choose from. Imaging software can copy files that you aren't easily going to be able to do. They use the Volume Shadow Service to copy active files that aren't normally available to the user. There are several free imaging softwares available that allow you to pick and choose files from the backup image later. DriveimageXML is a good freebie. Acronis True Image is great but it's not free.

Good luck with the venture.

 

Were you suggested the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard?
Start\All Programs\Accessories\System Tools\Files and Settings Transfer Wizard