[bonovox]

Hi. After trying Vista for a couple of months, I've decided to remove it and go back to XP. Apart from my main programs, I also want to keep my passwords and customizations. In order to do this, would you recommend backing up my entire system, or just the files and folders I need? Thanks.

[kimsland]

That's great news (more power and faster than before (a little sarcasm)
Anyway I tried and went back

So the backup.

Personnally I'd back up all keys, mail, documents (user files!)
And then image the drive (in case I wanted to go back)
http://www.snapfiles.com/reviews/HDC...clonefree.html
Mind you I use Ghost, a licensed product, for making clone images

Then it's all XP again (ideally clean install)
Return all your data and settings
Re-install all programs from the original CD
Windows Updates
Office etc

[bonovox]

Thanks! Can you tell me where the user files would be located? Would they all be under Documents?

[kimsland]

Yes
The USER files are Vista's way of saying My Documents (I like My Documents better)

[bonovox]

So as long as I transfer the Documents folder, I should be able to get back my passwords and customizations?

Also, can I back up my Word program or does it need to be re-installed? Sorry if this is a bit redundant but I really don't want to mess it all up. Thanks again.

[kimsland]

Originally Posted by bonovox

So as long as I transfer the Documents folder, I should be able to get back my passwords and customizations? .

No

Originally Posted by bonovox

Also, can I back up my Word program or does it need to be re-installed? Sorry if this is a bit redundant but I really don't want to mess it all up. Thanks again.

No Requires re-install

Sorry quick answer, have to gooooo.