the best recovery software avalible is probally either acronis true image (http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/trueimage/)or norton save and restore(http://www.symantec.com/home_homeoffice/products/overview.jsp?pcid=br&pvid=nsr20)
both cost around £30 but are the best software of this type,if i were to have to choose one it would probally be the acronis true image.as this is slightly better due to its better interface and easier set up
for a free back up solution try AutoSync File Backup 2.0.2(http://www.download.com/AutoSync-File-Backup/3000-2248_4-10693831.html?tag=lst-0-4)
AutoSync File Backup is a free program that allows you to back up all your imporant files with just a few clicks. AutoSync is easy to use, and can save your files if something crashes your computer. This program also allows you to back up your files to network drives, or network attaches storage. It can also automatically back up your files according to a schedule that you can select.
another good free back up program to try is
snap back-up 4.4 from http://www.download.com/Snap-Backup/3000-2242_4-10556309.html?tag=lst-0-8,this is a Backup utility for individual computer users who need a simple and convenient way to back up their valuable files. The first time you run Snap Backup, you configure where your data files reside and where to create backup files.
back up software is one of them programs which is a matter of preference,one back up software you may like but your mate wont,and as every program is different you just need to find the one that suits your p.c and can back up your data without slowing down your p.c
i hope this helps
good luck mate!