What’s Next?

Backing up

Recovery after a system failure is as complete as your most current backup. You should create system repair discs (select models only) and your initial backup immediately after software setup. As you add new software and data files, you should continue to back up your system on a regular basis to maintain a reasonably current backup.

Use Backup and Restore to create a backup. Click Start, click All Programs, click Maintenance, and then click Backup and Restore. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your backup, create a system image (select models only), or create a system repair disc (select models only).

Recovering

In case of system failure, use the f11 recovery tool to recover your original hard drive image.

✎The image includes the Windows operating system and software programs installed at the factory.

ÄCAUTION: Using f11 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. The f11 recovery tool reinstalls the operating system and HP programs and drivers that were installed at the factory. Software, drivers, and updates not installed at the factory must be reinstalled. Personal files must be restored from a backup.

1.If possible, back up all personal files.

2.If possible, check for the presence of the HP Recovery partition. To find the partition, click Start, right-click Computer, click Manage, and then click Disk Management.

✎If the HP Recovery partition is not listed, you must recover your operating system and programs using the Windows 7 Operating System DVD and the Driver Recovery disc. To purchase these discs, contact technical support. Refer to the “Contacting technical support” section in the back of this guide.

3.If the HP Recovery partition is listed, restart the computer, and then press esc while the “Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed at the bottom of the screen.

4.Press f11 while the “Press <F11> for recovery” message is displayed on the screen.

5.Follow the on-screen instructions.

✎Windows provides additional recovery tools through the operating system. For additional information, go to Help and Support.

✎If you are unable to boot (start up) your computer, you must purchase a Windows 7 Operating System DVD to reboot the computer and repair the operating system. For additional information, contact technical support. Refer to the “Contacting technical support” section in the back of this guide.

Getting Started

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