backup? help!

[Friendly]

hI just wondering if some one can explain backing up to me.
If I go to regedit and export a back up of my computer, is this a total back up?
If I import my reg backup, will it restore my computer back to exactly how it was at that date.
Is this a total back up if not what exactly is backed up?
Or is the idea that this is a total backup as long as you can access it?
If so how do I make a complete backup in case of total crash.
Is there some way to do this automatically (total back up) to another hard drive
Some one said once a week ghost over the whole hard drive.
What a hassle. Must be a much easier way.
I have multiple operating systems on my computer and would hate to have to reinstall the lot.
Can any one advise?
thanks

 

[Abhi]

Hi

As far as i know, exporting from regedit will simply backup the settings of Windows, not the programs, or your data.
You ll need to take a seperate backup of that.

Try using Files and System Files transfer in Win XP. In exports most settings (windows settings, external application settings) and most files (My Documents etc.) to another computer or a directory. Burning this directory onto a cd this will give a pretty comprehensive backup.