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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. This procedure
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.
NOTE: Your computer does not have an
internal optical drive. Use an external
optical drive or any external storage device
for the procedures that involve discs.
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.
Restoring Your Operating System