New
#1
Using Acronis
I guess I'm a little different... the way I use Acronis, and have been doing this for about 9+ years now is that I take a new image on a fresh OS install after getting all my progs on there and get it all how I like it.
Then... I compute. I make a text file for "Changes at next restore" with a short cut on my desktp, and when I see something I want to change on the system, I put it in my notes.
After this, every couple of months or so... I use Acronis to restore back to the day I took the image of the entire C Drive. I make my changes, let Bill's OS drink from the MS databank, defrag, and then take another new image of the C Drive.
I always keep a couple of the older Acronis restore files in case I ever need them... but by doing it this way, I always basically have a new OS install on my system and by going back to the previous drive image I'm getting rid of any potential viruses, malware, unwanted cookies / brownies, etc.
So, this is what has worked for me for years and I use this method when installing new hard drives as this takes care of all situations except of course hardware issues such as a faulty mobo or ram.