"file system map" to point folders to 2nd HD?

i have been running my OS(xp) on it's own dedicated drive (C) and keeping everything else on a second drive (D) which i backup manually by copying my data files to (E) I do this so if i ever have a problem, I can reformat C: and reinstall XP without it being a drastic last resort. Being a relative tech-newbie, i was thrilled to have my logic validated when i read the following on a tech discussion site. "I use a perfectly easy solution. Three disks in one machine. First disk is for OS, second is for user data, and third disk is for backups and Acronis True image files. The whole system is loaded up to ready-to-ship status, all necessary programs, updates, patches, whatever installed. We then make backup image of disk 1 (OS) to disk 3, and disable drive 3 it in the bios. Disk 2 is routinely scanned for viruses, and diff backed up to a central server, and encrypted. Not to mention routine use of file system encryption.

Also, you can quite easily create file system maps to point your My Documents folder on the OS drive to the My Documents folder that *really* is on the D Drive."

(i wanted to ask for clarification but feared being clobbered for misuse of the forum.) the discussion was wiping infected computer is best for any os

My main question is regarding the last sentence about "creating file systems maps" to point my document on C: to My Documents on D: which is where they actually reside. how do you do that? the best i've been able to do was put a shortcut on the desktop to that folder.

Of secondary interest, I was of the understanding that a drive with no operating system on it was safe from infection. (which is why i decided on this set-up to begin with) So why would Disk 2 need to be regularly scanned for viruses? I have AVG running at all times in conjunction with a firewall anyway, but i obviously don't get something here, and i would like to understand.

Thirdly: so if i have the OS on disk1 and all my settings and file associations are just like i want them, and all programs/updates are installed, i can ghost the entire drive to disk 3 as back-up? And if I need to wipe disk 1, i can simply copy the back-up drive on disk 3 back to disk 1(after formatting disk1)
and everything will be good to go, as if i'd never had to reformat? am i understanding this correctly? any clarification and/or correction is greatly appreciated.

 

If you want to the C: my docs to the D: my docs first back up your D: docs as this might overwrite them.

Find My Docs in windows explorer. Should be at the top & it should open the one on C: drive.

Now right click/properties/target. Change it to where you want.

Now, if necessary add the backup my docs to it.

All your documents will now be stored on the D: drive.

Is that what you are after?

 

yes. and sorry it took me so long to thank you. but thankyou.

 

At least it was there waiting for you.