Using recovery media

CAUTION: System Recovery deletes all data and programs you have created or installed. Back up any important data to a CD or DVD or to a USB flash drive.

To create recovery media, see System recovery using recovery media on page 313.

To perform a System Recovery using recovery media:

1.If using a set of DVDs, insert the first recovery disc into the DVD drive tray, and close the tray. If you are using a recovery USB flash drive, insert it into a USB port.

2.If the computer is not responding, press and hold the power button for approximately 5 seconds or until the computer turns off.

or

Click the Start button, and then click Shut Down.

3.Disconnect all peripheral devices from the computer except the monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

4.Press the power button to turn on the computer.

5.Press Esc as the computer is powering on to see the startup menu. Use the arrow keys to select the boot menu and press Enter. Use the arrow keys to select the location where the recovery media is inserted (USB or DVD). Press Enter to boot from that device.

6.If Recovery Manager asks if you want to run System Recovery from Media or Hard Drive, select Media. On the Welcome screen, under I need help immediately, click Factory Reset.

7.If you are prompted to back up your files, and you have not done so, select Back up your files first (recommended), and then click Next. Otherwise, select Recover without backing up your files, and then click Next.

8.If you are prompted to insert the next recovery disc, do so.

9.When Recovery Manager is finished, remove the recovery disc or the recovery USB flash drive from the system.

10.Click Finish to restart the computer.

Restoring and recovering in Windows 7 315