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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 • Factory Image Restore returns your hard
drive to the operating state it was in when
you purchased the computer. Dell Factory
Image Restore permanently deletes all
data on the hard drive and removes any
programs installed after you received the
computer. Use Dell Factory Image Restore
only if System Restore did not resolve your
operating system problem.
If you received an Operating System disc •
with your computer, you can use it to restore
your operating system. However, using the
Operating System disc also deletes all data
on the hard drive. Use the disc only if System
Restore did not resolve your operating
system problem.
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)
if changes to the hardware, software, or other
system settings have left the computer in an
undesirable operating state. Any changes that
System Restore makes to your computer are
completely reversible.
System Restore Options