I caught a nasty virus, my buddy and I are in the process of removing it. If does not work we will have to re-format. I read in some places that you can save ids or something so that you don't lose your characters. Could someone tell me the files that need to be saved and where they are. I know enough that they will be in program files/microsoft games/freelancer somewhere but I just want to be sure. I really do not want to lose my progress. I would prefer the most secure way to transfer.
C:\Program Files\Microsoft Games\Freelancer\EXE (or whereever you installed the game)
Open the file named flaccountid, there should be a window appearing telling you your account ID. Write it somewhere and when comes to time to log online for the first time again erase the new account they'r asking you to create and write up your old account code.
Also remember to set a movecharcode on all of your character in-game. Type /help.
That'll make sure you have them no matter what. If you screw this up COMPLETELY and lose you key or .adf file from Freelancer Account Manager you can allways transfer your character back to yourself.
In cases like these,its critical to have a external HD, or a 4gig or better flash drive to transfer files.
Its also critical to ALWAYS have a print-out of your FL ID's,or a back-up of the numbers on a seperate disc,flash,etc.....you never know when Murphy's Law will rear its all knowing head.