Windows re-installation help?

[Darth]

Alright, well first off, I haven't reinstalled windows in a year.
I usually used to do it like every 2-3 months but I haven't lately.
I'm sure I have a bunch of extra shit on my computer that I can surely do without, but before I can do that, I want to save some files.

Ex: My whole Limewire library. Roughly around 3,000 songs.
Some pics. Etc.

I want to back these up, but is there any way to do this without buying like a jump drive or something?

Also, I seem to have lost my disc that enables me to reformat my computer... Does anybody know how much one of these would cost me?
or, can I bum one off a friend... lol

oh, and I use Windows Xp Home Edition
k thx

[WooT]

Well for backing up, im sure windows xp back-up utilitiy will work but if not google some back-up software, as for the windows disk if u wanna buy one probz around 150$- 200$. but if ur gunna need windows xp home and find out if your product key if from sp1, or sp2, then is he has same service pack disk then use his.

[Darth]

i got my product key and shit...

[Spitfire]

Your computer has a DVD burner? Just burn all your files to DVD. You can get ~16gb USB sticks pretty cheap now too.

I can send you a dload link for XP Home SP2 or SP3. Or XP Professional SP3 Volume License Edition (Corporate with no activation) + a Key.

When you re-install windows in the initial setup stages when you choose where to install windows instead of one C:\ partition delete it and make two partitions. I.e. 20gb for windows and the rest in the other partition. Then when you ever need to re-format c:\ again you can just leave all your gear on D:\

In general for backing up data I use Acronis Enterprise Server Echo, or you could just use Acronis True Image Home.

[WooT]

couldnt have said it better myself spitfire

[Darth]

Does it cost money to get Acronis?

[Spitfire]

Code:

http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/trueimage/

Code:

http://www.acronis.com/enterprise/products/ATIES/

$50 / $999

Will send you a PM.

[BlindMansTicket]

edit: spit said it before me

[Spitfire]

Avoid Partition software esp those that do it live while your in windows.. I.e split your c:\ of 1tb to 50gb and a 950gb. I've tried those such as paragons and it killed all my data.

Just backup gear. Use the XP or Vista built in windows or in the setup process.