I want to save XP with all updates installed.

Well, I pulled off a real genius move on Sunday. I kicked the plug out of the wall while the computer was running.
The data was not damaged but I couldn't use XP. It just wouldn't open. So I installed it again on another partition, ran backup and then reformatted and reinstalled. SP3 installed too.
Tonight I'll go home and install the remaining updates post-SP3. There's about 150 by my count.
One the OS is installed and fully updated, is there a way of saving it to a DVD (for example)? So, if the worst happens again, I can just drop the disk in the tray and reinstall instantly.

 

You can save yourself from any future headaches with Acronis-http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/backup-security/.

It will take a snap of your computer and you can boot from restore cd ( that you will create) and be up and running - os,updates and all in about one hour.

You can get the program for free if you have a Seagate or WD hdd.
Good luck.

 

That would be nice, since a 1 year licence would be about $80Aus
How do I make that happen?

 

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You purchase a Seagate hdd or a Western Digital hdd and go to their website and download the program.
It is the same Acronis program (they may call it backup) without some of the bells and whistles, but will do what you want.
I have used it and it has saved me more than once.

The program from Seagate is called The Seagate Disc Wizard. http://www.seagate.com/www/en-us/support/downloads/discwizard

 

I have two hdds in the home comp. One is WD for sure.
Thanks for the advice.

 

If you have any problem with that then an alternative solution would be Easeus Todo Backup. This has many of the additional features you will find in Acronis, is used by many here, and has proved reliable. It also is free.

 

Thanks for this suggestion too.
Always good to have a plan B.