Question about Windows Backup

[idyll]

I currently have a PC with Windows 7 Ultimate on it. I will be moving to a new location soon and will be purchasing a new PC there.

Is there any way I can do a backup of my current PC onto an external hard drive so that when I get the new PC I can just transfer all of the files, including the software? My main concern is just keeping all of the software as-is on my current computer, so I am not burdened with having to reinstall all of it on to the new computer.

 

[bigdogchris]

I don't know how well this would work but ...

You could Sysprep the system with OOBE. Then immediately load up Windows Backup, do a complete PC backup.

After you buy the new computer, boot to the 7 install CD and choose to recover from a backup. Point to the backup.

In theory, this would work because 7 is pretty good about detecting new hardware during boot and still letting you hit the desktop. Unfortunately I think it would cause problems. Plus, you would lose any software or anything you get with the new system.