I use Norton Ghost and a 500Gb usb disk.  Backup EVERYTHING religiously, the whole disk image, all partitions--including the Windows partition.

It's immediate, always works, has proven itself when catastrophy occurs, and is simple to use.  I use Windows Vista Home Premium, and a trusty Toshiba Satellite.

I'm beginning to feel greatly relieved I never took the Apple route!  I think it's ironic that they used the 1984 advert to imply they are breaking the mould.  Yet, bit by bit, they're turning into a bit of a 'big-brother' company themselves.

Perhaps they will organise Daily online Apple SCREAMING sessions, with Mr. Jobs image flashing on the screen, and a Cathedral choir singing in deep Latin verse...I think that's a bit OMEN.  On the other hand, I rule nothing out about that company.  It might explain the real power behind it...