Restoring the Operating System
You can restore your operating system to a previously stable point in the following ways:
•Microsoft Windows System Restore is a integrated component of Windows XP and Windows Vista. Microsoft Windows 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 PC Restore by Symantec (available in Windows XP) and Dell Factory Image Restore (available in Windows Vista) restores your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. These processes permanently delete all data on the hard drive and remove any programs installed after you received the computer. Use Dell PC Restore or Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
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.
CAUTION: 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.
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Troubleshooting
