I have a dead XP laptop, but did back it up to an external drive just before its untimely death. If I replace it with a new PC, it looks like I will have to get a Vista OS.

What can I technically recover from my external drive?
- photos, music, and other data files?
- applications?

I have my original disks for the applications, but I have no idea if they are even Vista compatible. How do I find out?

Thanks

You can retain all your data.

Applications/programs will need to be reinstalled as they write into the registry.

There is no need to get Vista if you do not want it. Most manufacturers have reverted to offering XP.

As to compatibility I would check the software's web site and or Google the software and you will probably find info on this.