I know that Windows users ocasionally have some problems with their systems, (found 95, 98, ME to be junk, XP Pro is good, Vista I don't like and I haven't worked with Windows 7 much) and not everybody is prepared to change to MAC (or Linux - if Xactamate supported it). I know that there are users of all levels on this forum, and figuring that the more advanced users already have some of the issues worked out, I will be targeting the less experienced user.
I wanted to make sure that my system was always workable in the field - So here is How I set up My Laptop (Dell Lattitude E-6500).
The MOST important thing you can do with your computer is BACK UP!
All the backups in the world won't do you any good if you don't know what to do with them.
I used Paragon Drive Backup 9 to backup my (Entire) hard drive to a backup partition on my hard drive. I do this after I get a system set up Just the way I want it -Before I add data) This gives me a easy to access clean install - like reseting a computer to factory settings. Paragon Drive Backup 9 comes with an easy to use interface for creating the backup, as well as for creating an "Emergency boot" CD or USB.
Version 10 can be downloaded here - for free - for "Non-Commercial" uses: http://www.paragon-software.com/hom...html So you can try it out on your personal computer before buying the regular lisc. ($40)
I used Partition Magic (Although any partitioning program should work as well - to make an additional partition).
In addition to that, I use the Windows backup - XP Pro (Start / Programs / Accessories / System Tools / Backup) for backing up my data - set up for 1 backup, incremental backups can be scheduled to be done automatically .
I use a Seagate FreeAgent 1TB Desktop External Hard Drive to back up everything on the computer. (Hard drives do fail) I prefer the FreeAgent over a regular external hard drive because it has backup and Sync software with it and 1 TB is a LOT of space. The Sync software allows you to sync your data with a number of computers. The FreeAgent drive cost around $110, but can probably be found cheaper if you really look - as Christmas gets closer.
With this setup, about the only things you need would be your windows CD (in the unlikely event that you have to replace the hard drive) and a USB with The Paragon "Emergency Boot" installed on it.
There is also a minor question of how often do you backup - It is very much a personal choice, but recomend a daily (incremental) backup.
Thats my .02c, If anybody has a better way of doing things I'd like to hear it.