How to set up a system image and backup

Hi, dumb question from someone computer illeterate like me, how doe sone set up a system image and do all the backup stuff that DaveH was talking about?  I don't have a whole lot of stuff on my computer but would like keep the stuff I have if ever I need to wipe my drive completely.

 

Also, my computer comes with a fair amount of bloatware....how do I get rid of them?  For example, I have blocked an update to one of the programs that I never use...I know what it is, but I can't seem to find it to take it out (can't get to it via uninstall programs in the control panel)...any ideas?

 

 

Thanks.

 

[edit: Clarified subject.]