How to back up to cd?

[doktrred]

I need to make a back up(restore point) before I try and update my windows product key,(I got scanned by MS when I tried to upgrade windows media player and got the dreadded "you might have a pirated copy of windows message").

I thought it might be better to back up using removeable media (let me know if it's adequate to just back up to the hard drive). My T30 doesn't have a floppy. The questions:
Is there a way to do this without buying software?
What shoud I back up, personal data for sure, but is it a good idea to back up the entire computer?????
I'm not a complete computer novice, but not far from it, so please keep it simple if possible.
Thanks
Mike

[dsigma6]

Your data isn't going anywhere, but it's good to have a backup.

This isn't friendly forum talk, but there are numerous WGA (windows genuine advantage) removal tools. You should be fine using that, and updating your system at windizupdate.com (only through firefox).

[doktrred]

dsigma6,
Thanks,
I think I will try MS's way first, the IT guy thought all I needed to do was update the product key, which should be free. I shouldn't need to buy their "get back in MS's good graces kit" for $149.99 retail. If it doesn't work, I may try your suggestion.

Is creating a "restore point" before updating, as microsoft suggests, the same as doing a backup? Confused...............
Mike

[dsigma6]

Is creating a "restore point" before updating, as microsoft suggests, the same as doing a backup? Confused...............
Mike

No- A restore point will roll your system back to the way it was at the time the restore point was made, and it will keep all of your files intact. It mostly deals with program settings/configurations, or if a newly installed program gives you problems.

Backing up involves getting your data off the hard drive, so if it takes a dive, your files are safely waiting on another form of media. You can either save only the files you want to a CD-R, or if you have a second HD, you can use a cloning program like Acronis.

If it was my computer, I would certainly copy all of my important docs to another HD or CD/DVD, and then commence with the Windows COA deal. It won't do anything to your data, but you really never know what could happen.