Thanks!

OK so if I understand correctly

1) I currently a 40 GIG hardrive?

2) What I am looking for is something which can store my files and settings so that if Armageddon happens to my computer, I can simply restore all files and previous settings onto another computer.
-Is this POSSIBLE?
-If so, which product is BEST and why?
External HDD
Internal HDD
Image Copier

3) Do I have this right?
-An external HDD will save all of my files that I ask it to?
-Can it save the settings I have for windows or just files?
-How does this work in terms of
If Armageddon happens and I need to restore
Also you said you can't simply PLUG it into another computer and go, well then what do I do if I have my HDD with me on the road? What does the HDD let me do on another computer, can I access files and settings? What about on a new HD, can I simply plug it in and have it boot up all data and settings I made?

4) Is the internal HDD the same or how does it vary?

5) How does the image copier vary?
-Do you simply save everything to it, then boot it to a blank CD?
-Can you access it on road CPUs?

6) Essentially if you could explain what an external, internal HDD is, image copier, PROS, cons, how they work, and relate to my usage in laymans terms THAT would be superb.

Thanks.
?Try and revisit my previous post above...
Post back with what you don't understand.Thank you very much!

So...y=mx+B, because I am a big methodical guy, can we summarize this.

1) I would like to be able to have all my files saved in case the CPU crashes.
I would like to be able to have my desktop settings kept as well, this way if I must reformat, I can have all documents kept and won't have to spend HOURS configuering the desktop.
I got a little OCD and this would drive me CRAZY.

2) You suggest what I do is:
Purchase a backup harddrive
Purchase a ghost image copier
Update once a week

3) In doing this will I be able to achieve my goal of having all files, settings, desktop, ready to reinstall should the CPU crash as LONG as I update them often?

OR

4) I only need new Ghost, I don't need an external, or do I need both.

Thanks.The external is simply a matter of convienence...an internal is not that difficult to hook up...2 wires and 2 screws.
But shop around for the best deal...
As far as the image program some people use Ghost but i highly recommend Acronis True Image
Newegg.com currently has the best deal on it or you can DLoad a trial version directly from Acronis website.
You can practice with it for 30 days and it will do everything but restore an image but at least you can get familiar with it's features.

Best of Luck and let us know...Thanks...so to repeat...I need both for my purposes?