Important things to remember:

Before we perform a complete rebuild of your computer, you should collect the software listed below. These may have come with your system or you may have purchased it after you bought the computer. 

These are not intended to be all inclusive lists. Take your time and look around at what is already installed on your system. Then try to recall if you downloaded the software or if you have the CD’s handy. Think about what type (if any) of files each program you notice makes. What would you need backed up if you had an entirely new system?  The following lists will help you get started thinking about this. We’ll fill out a detailed checklist later.

You’ll need the following software:

• Microsoft Windows XP/2000/etc
• Microsoft Office or WordPerfect Suite
• DVD Viewing Software (WinDVD)
• Antivirus Software (Symantec, Norton, McAfee,etc.)
  (free for MSU students and staff at http://its.msstate.edu, click on  Symantec in the Frequently Requested bar on the right)
• CD Burning Software (Nero Burning ROM, Roxio, etc.)
• Financial Software (Microsoft Money, QuickBooks, etc.)
• Digital camera and photo viewing software
• Other software that may have come with your printer, scanner, mouse, keyboard, etc.

Data that will need to be backed up:

• All files in My Documents and other important folders.
• Microsoft Word or Word Perfect documents (.doc, .wpd, etc.)
• Pictures and Videos from My Pictures and other folders (.jpg, .bmp, .mpeg, etc.).
• Microsoft Money (.mny) or QuickBooks (.qbw) files.
• Microsoft Outlook (.pst, .wab) or Netscape Composer files (.na2, .nab).
• And any other files that you regularly use.