Using a Windows 7 operating system DVD (purchased separately)

If you are unable to boot (start up) your computer and you cannot use the system repair discs you previously created (select models only), you must purchase a Windows 7 operating system DVD to reboot the computer and repair the operating system. Be sure that your most recent backup (stored on discs or on an external drive) is easily accessible. To order a Windows 7 operating system DVD, go to http://www.hp.com/support, select your country or region, and follow the on-screen instructions. You can also order the DVD by calling technical support. For contact information, refer to the Worldwide Telephone Numbers booklet included with the computer.

CAUTION: Using a Windows 7 operating system DVD completely erases hard drive contents and reformats the hard drive. All files you have created and any software installed on the computer are permanently removed. When reformatting is complete, the recovery process helps you restore the operating system, as well as drivers, software, and utilities.

To initiate recovery using a Windows 7 operating system DVD, follow these steps:

NOTE: This process takes several minutes.

1.If possible, back up all personal files.

2.Restart the computer, and then insert the Windows 7 operating system DVD into the optical drive before the Windows operating system loads.

3.When prompted, press any keyboard key.

4.Follow the on-screen instructions.

5.Click Next.

6.Select Repair your computer.

7.Follow the on-screen instructions.

Windows Vista

To protect your information, use the Backup and Restore Center to back up individual files and folders, back up your entire hard drive (select models only), or create system restore points. In case of system failure, you can use the backup files to restore the contents of your computer.

The Backup and Restore Center provides the following options:

●Backing up individual files and folders

●Backing up the entire hard drive (select models only)

●Scheduling automatic backups (select models only)

●Creating system restore points

●Recovering individual files

●Restoring the computer to a previous state

●Recovering information using recovery tools

NOTE: For detailed instructions, perform a search for these topics in Help and Support.

NOTE: In case of system instability, HP recommends that you print the recovery procedures and save them for later use.

128 Chapter 7 Backup and recovery