>>>Anyway, plan to install Visual Studio 2008 in a few minutes (currently using 2005 and don't want to un-install it). Wish me luck...
>>
>>Do not forget to do a complete pc backup - if possible
>>
>>Try first to install the net 3.5 framework separately
>
>Complete PC backup - what do you mean by that? Now I'm scared again.

Well, just to be on the safe side.

It's possible that the install won't work (3.5 framework install here on vista was a real pain in the neck - had to completely reinstall my pc)

So, prior to doing any significant install, I take a complete pc backup to usb drive (included in Vista pro, dunno about XP) of the C: partition

If anything fails ( uninstall may not completely remove what has been installed), I can boot from CD and completely restore the C: partition