What's the best way to back up all the files on a PC?  Is there a good programme available or are there any hardware devices which could be worthwhile?

XP has it's own back up utility, Clive, which you can find in Start > All Programs > Accessories  > System Tools, however, it doesn't come installed by default on the Home edition, so you'll have to install it from the XP CD.

The easiest way I have found is just to put everything I need to save onto CDs, including most of My Documents, E-Mails, Address Books, Bookmarks / Favorites, etc.  The trickiest thing is usually e-mails, so I'll try to find out what you do with Outlook, but I expect someone will beat me to it!

That's great news guys.  Don't worry about e-mails.  I know how to do that.  

 Very quick Simon!

I'm going to back everything up in readiness Simon.  I really should get this sorted out once and for all shouldn't I?

I think you might need a full XP installation CD, DJ, but if it is on the recovery disc, it should be located at D:\Valueadd\msft\ntbackup where D: is the letter of your CD drive.

Check your mail, DJ.  

Back Up and Restore Outlook Express.

Back Up and Restore Outlook.

Hope that helps!  

Thats handy to have thanks Simon !