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136 Reinstalling Software
Restoring Your Operating System
You can restore your operating system in the following ways:
• System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without
affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring
your operating system and preserving data files.
• Dell PC Restore by Symantec (available in Windows XP) and Dell Factory
Image Restore (available in Windows Vista) returns your hard drive to the
operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Both
permanently delete all data on the hard drive and remove any programs
installed after you received the computer. Use Dell PC Restore or Dell
Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your
operating system problem.
•
Operating System
installation media can be used to perform a reinstall of
your operating system. However, using the
Operating System
installation
media also deletes all data on the hard drive. Use the media
only
if System
Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
Using Microsoft
Windows
System Restore
The Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option which
allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without
affecting data files). Using System Restore can be helpful if changes to the
system hardware, software, or settings have left the computer in an
undesirable operating state. For information on using System Restore, see the
Windows Help and Support Center (click Start, then click Help and
Support).
NOTICE: System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them. Make
regular backups of your data files.
Starting System Restore
Windows XP:
NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and
close any open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any
files or programs until the system restoration process is complete.