Using the Operating System Media
Before reinstalling the operating system, try the following:
•Windows Device Driver Rollback (see "Returning to a Previous Device Driver Version" on page 36)
•Microsoft System Restore (see "Using Microsoft® Windows® System Restore" on page 38)
NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files from your primary hard drive to another media. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.
To reinstall Windows, you need the Dell™ Operating System media and the Dell Drivers and Utilities media. The Dell Drivers and Utilities media contains drivers that were installed at the time you ordered your computer.
NOTE: Depending on the region from which you ordered your computer, or whether you requested the media, the Dell Drivers and Utilities media and Dell Operating System media may not ship with your computer.
Reinstalling Windows
NOTE: The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete.
1Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2Insert the Operating System media.
3If the Install Windows message appears, click Exit.
4Restart the computer, and when the DELL logo appears, press <F12> immediately.
If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Microsoft® Windows® desktop; then, restart your computer and try again.
5When the boot device list appears, highlight
This selection changes the boot sequence for one time only.
6Press any key to Boot from
7Reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.
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