What is everything i need for my install?

If i install window vista and i want everything is new in my computer.do i still need for back up?

• bcoz i had encountered many problems in my programs installed when im running ungenuine xp so i decide to start from the beginning again, if i will install this genuine vista. im planning for re-download and re-install some of them.i only want is folders for music, pic and video to be save.is that ok?

• Answer:

  Generally, yes you can reinstall without touching data directories, but you should have a backup if anything is important. Not only can something go wrong with the install, but your drive can die at any time. It is a good idea to make backups regularly. You can burn some files to CD's, or copy them to another hard drive. There are even some backup solutions over the internet, but most have a limit for free use. http://idrive.com http://www.box.net/ are two examples.