HTC Hero :: How To Root - Install Custom ROM - Backup - More

I have seen many threads & posts from confused Hero owners. The forum is cluttered full of them. So I thought it would be good for all the information to reside in one thread and if people are still having problems then they should make a new thread. I understand that it is sometimes difficult to find the right instructions as there are conflicting posts / thread everywhere.
There are so many guides out there. Each more confusing than the last. So many unnecessary steps. This way is quick and easy.

Note: I have to the best of my knowledge checked and performed the following guides myself and confirm that they work. If my spelling or grammar is wrong, my methods are wrong, you'd like to add something or whatever please Private Message me with the URL of the post and please specify what is wrong. I will try and change / update it ASAP.

I take no responsibility for anything that may go wrong. It is your responsibility to BACKUP everything periodically. The end.

The following Guides are for GSM Hero's Only (Europe)... US / Sprint Users Please See Here

I have made the following GUIDES:-

What Is Rooting & The Benefits & The Downsides

Which Method Do I Use? (Searchable by firmware) <-- Click Me FIRST

How To ROOT

How To Install A Custom ROM

How To Update The Radio

How To Back Up & Restore Your Phone

How to Back Up Your Applications

I am on T-Mobile/3UK & I can't Root my phone / upgrade to a customROM

I Am On Orange [2.73.61.66 Firmware] & I Cant Use Any Instant Rooting Methods

WORK IN PROGRESS // Thanks for your support. I would like to thank Modaco, its users and people on this forum for helpful information which enabled me to put this guide together after my own experiences and frustration at finding contradicting info.

My Work Here Is Done. My Time With My Beloved Hero (The Best Phone I Have Ever Had To Date)... Is Now Over. I Have A Samsung Galaxy S Now ^_^ So Unfortunately This Guide Is No Longer Going To Be Updated/Supported. However Everything Within This Guide Will Still Work & Will Be Valid For Ever & Ever ... Feel Free To PM Me If The Thread Needs Updating...I Won't Leave My Fellow Hero Users Completely.