Helly willytheg,
Unfortunately, you question about backing up Windows is off-topic to this forum, the stated purpose of which is to provide assistance regarding Windows Genuine Advantage issues as experienced on Windows XP.
Please visit the Windows Live OneCare support page for further assistance:
http://onecare.live.com/standard/en-us/3/helpsupport/default.htm
For great advice on all topics XP, visit http://www.annoyances.org/exec/forum/winxp