Backup before Vista clean install - which directories to backup?

So, I managed to create the so called "Product Recovery Disc Set" (aka "Factory Installed State").

Before going ahead with the clean install, I would also like to create a DVD, containing critical directories (Vista Business) in current installation.

I think that there is no point in backing up C:\Windows because it will be installed (cleanly) from the "Windows Anytime Upgrade" that came with the laptop. Also, it takes about 7.5 GB - which doesn't fit into a single 4.7 GB DVD (that's what I have).

So, the remaining candidates are:
C:\DRIVERS
C:\SWSHARE
C:\SWTOOLS

The only other interesting folder is C:\Program Files. But in there, most folders are not going to interest me in a clean install, so the ones that could be interesting are:

C:\Program Files\Corel
C:\Program Files\Diskeeper Corporation
C:\Program Files\Fingerprint Sensor
C:\Program Files\Intuit
C:\Program Files\Softex (this is where the OmniPass software resides)
C:\Program Files\WordPerfect Office X3

Is there anything else that I should be aware of before wiping out my hard drive?

Thanks,
Victor

 

All you really need to do a clean install are the Recovery Discs and SWSetup for the drivers. You can follow this guide.

 

Or use the link in my sig which is basically Orev's guide that I made Thinkpad specific and is now full of screenshots to help walk you through the process.

 

You really don't need to back up anything, just download the Thinkvantage update tool and run that. Just make sure you get all the critical dates for windows and critical updates from the tool along with the recommended updates. If any drivers are still left (check device manager) just download them from lenovo or the hardware manufacturer.

Only thing I can really think that you might want to keep is the lenovo wallpapers.

 

Is this the same as the following guide?

http://directedge.us/node/24

Also, if I am not mistaken the Recovery Discs will not give me a clean install but rather the same stuff that Lenovo shipped pre-installed. For a true clean install I need the "Anytime Upgrade" DVD. Am I wrong?

Thanks,
Victor

 

Seriously? No you are not wrong. If you really clicked the ling in my sig, it states very clearly to use the anytime upgrade DVD and provides links to purchase the DVD if you don't already have one.

The link you provided is Brian's guide (AKA oreve here on NBR). It is the same guide as the link in my sig (basically) only I have added screenshots and more detail to make it Thinkpad specific.