how exactally to load a cooked rom

[rumpagump]

I know the process would be slightly difference for each device but I cannot find a description of how to back up my current rom, load a custom rom, and if need be flash the old rom back onto the device.

I also haven't found a description of what all is entailed in a custom rom. is it that much different than regular windows mobile? whats the difference between a new rom and a serious registry over haul?

I am running a HTC touch pro(ATT version) minus most of the bloatware and with some minor registry tweeks, no matter how I interface with it(touch flo3d, pointui, or the windows home screen) eventually it will lock up on the switch back from landscape. so if there was a rom that was built for high performance, but was able to use touchflo3d if I wanted, or was more finger friendly. . . .
I don't really even know what I want in a rom because I don't know what is offered.

so a little helpful explanation to take me from intermediate level to low end pro would be great thanks

[orb3000]

I know the process would be slightly difference for each device but I cannot find a description of how to back up my current rom, load a custom rom, and if need be flash the old rom back onto the device.

I also haven't found a description of what all is entailed in a custom rom. is it that much different than regular windows mobile? whats the difference between a new rom and a serious registry over haul?

I am running a HTC touch pro(ATT version) minus most of the bloatware and with some minor registry tweeks, no matter how I interface with it(touch flo3d, pointui, or the windows home screen) eventually it will lock up on the switch back from landscape. so if there was a rom that was built for high performance, but was able to use touchflo3d if I wanted, or was more finger friendly. . . .
I don't really even know what I want in a rom because I don't know what is offered.

so a little helpful explanation to take me from intermediate level to low end pro would be great thanks

Reading the Wiki always helps to solve questions
Original ROM´s (something like the operating system from factory) is loaded when you buy a device, this great forum have a lot of chefs (Members that improve original ROM´s) with dozens of custom or cooked ROM´s.
ALWAYS a cooked ROM is better than the original!
The best way to knoe which one is the best for you is to enter to the correspondent subforum of your device and READ a lot regarding the ones you are interested in, once you choose one enter to Wiki to learn hot to upgrade a ROM:
http://wiki.xda-developers.com/index.php?pagename=HTC_Raphael

Good luck and enjoy!