If you don't mind losing all of your files then yes, it is ok.
If you reinstalled windows without backing up any of your files, then they are gone forever.
If your restore requires a windows disk then you cannot restore without one. Most do not require a windows CD. Most include the windows files in the manufacturer restore.
Yes, if you have copied all installion files on your hard disk. If you haven't you cannot reinstall Vista.
"Backing up files is not a new phenomenon to Windows 7. Backing up your files enable you to keep a record of all your important files and information in case your computer crashes, gets a virus, is stolen or any other unfortunate incident."
Re installing the Windows OS without formatting the disk will keep your files safe. Only the system files will be rewirtten no change will be to the data files. But files stored in My Documents and Desktop will be lost if you are going for a clean installation. Download Recover My Files software to recover your old files after a system crash.
Use the following commands in Windows XP: Start, Run, type sfc /scannow This will restore all Windows files and drivers back to their original condition, without losing or erasing information.
\Windows
If you have encrypted this folder than the answer is no. To make it possible to open encrypted files after Windows reinstall you have to uncheck "Encrypt files" checkbox in the file properties dialog.
"Hidden" is a file attribute; this is information about the file that shouldn't change when you reinstall the operating system.
Data safety in the event of winders screwing up. If you have all your photos etc on a partition with windows installed on another, you can reinstall windows in the event of a serious error without losing your files.
By backing up Manually one would have to do it yourself correctly every time "by hand", while automatically you insert your desired settings into Windows or another backup software to do it for you for as long as you want.
I am unsure of the names but I can remember what each one does. The first one should merely reinstall windows but leave all your files where they currently are. The second one should move the current structure of your hard drive to a folder normally entitled something along the lines of "my old disk structure". It will then reinstall windows on your hard drive. The third option should completely wipe your hard drive and reinstall windows on it. If you have any files that aren't backed up then you will lose them. Dont use this option if you have any files on the computer when you use this option you will lose them!