Partition scheme

[TravelLite]

When installing previous versions of Windows (Win 98SE or XP) I would always create two partitions. The smaller boot partition contained the OS and programs, and the larger partition contained my data. Then I would use a utility such as Partimage under Linux to make a compressed image of the system partition from time to time, and especially before experimenting with some unfamiliar piece of software. This has saved the day more than once by enabling me to return everything to the exact previous state very quickly.

Now I am building a new computer, and I would like to use a similar partition scheme. I have before me Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit, 4GB of RAM and an empty 1TB hard drive. Please could someone give me advice on how large I should make the system partition? The screen message says "The recommended free space for installation is 24034MB". If I round that up to 25GB, will most of that space be used by the system, and will there still be room for me to install my programs? What about the size of the pagefile - can I set it manually, or is it best just to let Vista decide? Is there anything else I should consider at this stage?

Thank you for any help.

[fizban2]

a large portion of your choice will be on where you want to install your application, if you plan on installing *just* the OS on the 25 gig partition, i would say you would be fine, this would allow you room for updates and SPs. you would then create a second partition to install your applications. you would want both your apps and Vista installed on the same partition i would go for something larger, currently i use 120 for the primary OS partition plus applications. since you are using a 64 bit OS i would allow Vista to set the pagefile size. it does a repectable job and can adjust it self as needed.

[TravelLite]

Thanks for your rapid reply, fizban2.

Since I intend to install my programs (applications) in the same partition as the operating system, I will imitate you and use a 120GB partition. That will leave nearly 880GB free for my data partition, which should be more than enough for my present needs.