Reinstalling Software 103
Using Microsoft Windows System Restore
The Microsoft Windows operating systems provides 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
For 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
. Follow the remaining onscreen prompts.
For Windows Vista:
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button
→
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
. Follow the remaining onscreen prompts.
In the event System Restore did not resolve the issue, you may undo the last system restore. To undo the
last system restore, see "Undoing the Last System Restore" on page103.
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.
For Windows XP:
1
Click
Start
→
All Programs
→
Accessories
→
System Tools
→
System Restore
.
2
Click
Undo my last restoration
→
Next
.
For Windows Vista:
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button
→
Help and Support
.
2
In the search box type
System Restore
and press <Enter>.
3
Click
Undo my last restoration
→
Next
.