[Znod]

I'd take the easy path: Acronis True Image and a backup external USB, firewire, or eSata drive. Also, I have Dell EPS laptop--that originally came sans disks. I called EPS service, and they sent me all disks. Maybe Dell would have done the same even if I hadn't had an EPS. Bottom line: call your manufacturer and ask--besides doing Acronis/external drive. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. There is nothing like a pristine restorable backup of your system made via a program like Acronis (the best) with at least the bulk of your installed software on it. Trust me on this one!!!