3 System recovery
System Recovery completely erases and reformats the hard disk drive, deleting all data files you have created, and then reinstalls the operating system, programs, and drivers. However, you must reinstall any software that was not installed on the computer at the factory. This includes software that came on media included in the computer accessory box, and any software programs you installed after purchase.
NOTE: Always use the System Restore procedure before you use the System Recovery program — see Microsoft System Restore under Software troubleshooting on page 8.
Some features might not be available on systems that are shipped without a version of Microsoft Windows.
Choosing a system recovery method
You must choose one of the following methods to perform a System Recovery:
●Recovery Image — Run the System Recovery from a recovery image stored on your hard disk drive. The recovery image is a file that contains a copy of the original
NOTE: The recovery image uses a portion of the hard disk drive that cannot be used for data storage.
●Recovery Media — Run the System Recovery from recovery media that you create from files stored on your hard disk drive or purchased separately. To create recovery media, see Creating recovery media on page 13.
System Recovery options
You should attempt a System Recovery in the following order:
1.Through the hard disk drive, from the Windows 7 Start menu.
2.Through the hard disk drive, by pressing F11 on the keyboard during system startup.
3.Through recovery media that you create.
4.Through recovery discs purchased from HP Support. To purchase recovery discs, visit http://www.hp.com/support.
System Recovery from the Windows 7 Start Menu
CAUTION: System Recovery deletes all data and programs you created or installed. Back up any important data to a removable disc or USB flash drive.
10 Chapter 3 System recovery | ENWW |