Using the Windows recovery tools

NOTE: If you are unable to boot (start up) your computer, you must purchase a Windows Vista® operating system DVD to reboot the computer and repair the operating system. For additional information, refer to the “Using a Windows Vista operating system DVD (purchased separately)” section in this guide.

To recover information you previously backed up, follow these steps:

1.Click Start > All Programs > Maintenance > Backup and Restore Center.

2.Follow the on-screen instructions to recover your entire computer (select models only) or your files.

NOTE: Windows includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of your computer. You may be prompted for your permission or password for tasks such as installing software, running utilities, or changing Windows settings. Refer to Help and Support for more information.

To recover your information using Startup Repair, follow these steps:

CAUTION: Using Startup Repair completely erases hard drive contents and reformats the hard drive. All files you have created and any software installed on the computer are permanently removed. When reformatting is complete, the recovery process restores the operating system, as well as the drivers, software, and utilities from the backup used for recovery.

1.If possible, back up all personal files.

2.If possible, check for the presence of the Windows partition and the HP Recovery partition. To find the partitions, select Start > Computer.

NOTE: If the Windows partition and the HP Recovery partition have been deleted, you must recover your operating system and programs using the Windows Vista operating system DVD and the Driver Recovery disc (both purchased separately). For additional information, refer to the “Using a Windows Vista operating system DVD (purchased separately)” section in this guide.

3.Restart the computer, and then press f8 before the Windows operating system loads.

4.Select Repair your computer.

5.Follow the on-screen instructions.

NOTE: For additional information on recovering information using the Windows tools, perform a search for these topics in Help and Support.

Using f11

CAUTION: Using f11 completely erases hard drive contents and reformats the hard drive. All files

you have created and any software installed on the computer are permanently removed. The f11 recovery tool reinstalls the operating system and HP programs and drivers that were installed at the factory. Software not installed at the factory must be reinstalled.

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