To create a backup using Windows Backup and Restore:

NOTE: The backup process may take over an hour, depending on file size and the speed of the computer.

1.Select Start > All Programs > Maintenance > Backup and Restore.

2.Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your backup, create a system image (select models only), or create system repair media (select models only).

Performing a system recovery

In case of system failure or instability, the computer provides the following tools to recover your files:

●Windows recovery tools: You can use Windows Backup and Restore to recover information you have previously backed up. You can also use Windows Startup Repair to fix problems that might prevent Windows from starting correctly.

●f11 recovery tools (select models only): You can use the f11 recovery tools to recover your original hard drive image. The image includes the Windows operating system and software programs installed at the factory.

NOTE: If you are unable to boot (start up) your computer and you cannot use the system repair media you previously created (select models only), you must purchase Windows 7 operating system media to reboot the computer and repair the operating system. For additional information, see Using Windows 7 operating system media on page 63.

Using the Windows recovery tools

Using the Windows recovery tools, you can:

●Recover individual files

●Restore the computer to a previous system restore point

●Recover information using recovery tools

NOTE: For detailed instructions on various recovery and restore options, perform a search for these topics in Help and Support. To access Help and Support, select Start > Help and Support.

NOTE: Windows includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of your computer. You may be prompted for your permission or password for tasks such as installing software, running utilities, or changing Windows settings. Refer to Help and Support. To access Help and Support, select Start > Help and Support.

To recover information you previously backed up:

1.Select Start > All Programs > Maintenance > Backup and Restore.

2.Follow the on-screen instructions to recover your system settings, your computer (select models only), or your files.

To recover your information using Startup Repair, follow these steps:

CAUTION: Some Startup Repair options will completely erase and reformat 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 restores the operating system, as well as the drivers, software, and utilities from the backup used for recovery.

62 Chapter 11 Backup and recovery