How to Create a System Image in Windows 7
 

The new backup utilities in Windows 7 are actually pretty impressive and creating an image will be possible in all versions. Today we take a look at creating a backup image of your machine without the need for a third party utility like Ghost or True Image.

You just just finished installing a fresh copy of Windows 7 on your computer and have it set up to your liking. One of the first things you should do now is create an image of the disc so in the event of a crash you will be able to restore it to its current state. An image is an exact copy of everything on the drive and will restore it back to its current state. It’s probably best to create an image when everything is clean and organized on your system. This will make the image file smaller and allows you to restore the system with a smooth running set up.

http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/4241/...-in-windows-7/

That's one of the details i like about Win 7 ;) I've been using Acronis for that purpose for ages in XP and it's fast, now i wonder about speeds:

64gb SSD to internal sata2 = 2min

15gb HDD to USB HDD = <20min

Ofcourse Win7 isn't slower, the USb is killing the test :D it's morning ^^

or is USB just that slow?