windows 7

Windows 8 is ok with TF2.

i have windows 8 and tf2 is perfectly functional

If you have a lot of games installed through steam you might want to back those up.

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if you're lazy just backup the entire appdata folder. although if you're as dumb as you say you are with internet browsing and download, look through these and delete your google/firefox folders and whatever else. this folder is where most of your software settings/mumble certificate/ect save.

because I play with much different keybinds, I go through the folders of games I regularly play and backup all my configs. doubt this applies to you if you use generic wasd/ect.

edit: documents/my games/ games have started putting their save files into here, another place to look at for backups.

If you're reformating because of questionable things, is it a good idea to even keep your old passwords? Just a thought

have you tried running ccleaner?

For when you need to install a bunch of software after the reformat: https://ninite.com/

If you have the space, back up some games you play often to avoid destroying your monthly cap.

monthly cap? what do you mean?

http://i.imgur.com/xDCNrZ1.png

Thanks for the advice so far guys. Not worried about a monthly cap (don't have one). I will be changing all my passwords once it's reformatted more than likely. However I'd still like to have them backed up. Thanks for the tip about the %APPDATA% folder turts, I forgot useful that could be. Ninite looks super impressive as well. Should I worry about backing up drivers?

@hooli, a lot of canadian internet providers have caps on network traffic.

I'd suggest downloading + backing up at least the network drivers. Most drivers at this point are available through windows updates, but better to not screw yourself lol

prepare a disk image after you've finished installing an OS, or create a slipstream'ed disk with your device drivers and Service packs.