96 Troubleshooting Tools
Restoring Your Operating System
You can restore your operating system in the following ways:
• Microsoft Windows XP System Restore and Windows Vista System
Restore return 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 restores your hard drive to the operating
state it was in when you purchased the computer. Dell PC Restore
permanently deletes all data on the hard drive and removes any
applications installed after you received the computer. Use PC Restore
only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem.
•
If you received
an
Operating System
CD with your computer, you can use it
to restore your operating system. Use the CD
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.
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.
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