1) First, let's prevent needing to do a full system restart. Windows has a System Restore functionality that is pretty effective. You can configure how often it performs this service. Acronis True Image is another recommended program that I personally use to make images of my computer. Lastly you could always just back up your important files, and perform a full "system restart" which I think you meant Windows wipe and reinstall. You will need the retail CD or if you prefer you could perform the Windows install with a USB (5GB minimum). For instructions:
http://www.microsoftstore.com/store/msusa/html/pbPage.Help_Win7_usbdvd_dwnTool
2) I won't recommend this, since you are moving your preexisting Windows to a different hardware environment. But you could try - it likely will not work especially since Windows is tied to your previous hardware. I personally would not recommend this. Just back up your files into a USB or external hard drive. Make a list of essential programs you use frequently. Migrate these files and install those programs into a fresh Windows install.
Keep the questions coming. And if you need more explanation in any of the responses above let me know. They were becoming walls of text so I kept it "short."