Reinstalling Software 99
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)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.
NOTICE: Make regular backups of your data files. System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover
them.
NOTE: The procedures in this document were written for the Windows default view, so they may not apply if you
set your Dell™ computer to the Windows Classic view.
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 is complete.
1
Click
Start
→
All Programs
→
Accessories
→
System Tools
→
System Restore
.
2
Click either
Restore my computer to an earlier time
or
Create a restore point
.
3
Click
Next
and follow the remaining on-screen prompts.
Windows Vist a:
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and click
Help and Support
.
2
In the search box, type
System Restore
and press <Enter>.
NOTE: The User Account Control window may appear. If you are an administrator on the computer, click
Continue; otherwise, contact your administrator to continue the desired action.
3
Click
Next
and follow the remaining prompts on the screen.
In the event that System Restore did not resolve the issue, you may undo the last system restore.
Undoing the Last System Restore
NOTICE: Before you undo the last system restore, save and close all open files and exit any open programs. Do not
alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration is complete.
Windows XP:
1
Click
Start
→
All Programs
→
Accessories
→
System Tools
→
System Restore
.
2
Click
Undo my last restoration
and click
Next
.
Windows Vist a:
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button, , and click
Help and Support
.
2
In the search box, type
System Restore
and press <Enter>.
3
Click
Undo my last restoration
and click
Next
.