Hi guys, I have just formatted my HD,downloaded my most trusted win xp,AVG,ZA and ad-aware updates.Ran all scans and the drivers are OK.Now that all is in order, i wish to preserve this super clean condition by backing up all the essetials in a file and then burnt onto a DVD. The problem is what are the essentials that make up the system restore function.I know that System State is one of them but what else? Are these items ok? Application Data Local Settings System Volume Information Program Files.(All?) WINDOWS(The big folder with lots of folders?) Is there something that i missed ? I know this is a biggie but i hope that once this is done,the next time i suffer a major crash,all i need to do is format the HD and use this DVD to put back all the necessary components in to their correct places.It sounds good in theory but i hope it works!! Hey,i think lotsa guys will benefit from your advice in the event of the mother of all horrors-the meltdown!! Hey,before i go,season greetings! Title Edited - Please follow new forum rules from now on -- Martin L