Dell Precision T3400 User's Guide - Page 136

Restoring Your Operating System You can restore your operating system in the following ways: • System Restore returns your computer to an earlier operating state without affecting data files. Use System Restore as the first solution for restoring your operating system and preserving data files. • Dell PC Restore by Symantec (available in Windows XP) and Dell Factory Image Restore (available in Windows Vista) returns your hard drive to the operating state it was in when you purchased the computer. Both permanently delete all data on the hard drive and remove any programs installed after you received the computer. Use Dell PC Restore or Dell Factory Image Restore only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem. • Operating System installation media can be used to perform a reinstall of your operating system. However, using the Operating System installation media also deletes all data on the hard drive. Use the media only if System Restore did not resolve your operating system problem. Using Microsoft Windows System Restore The Windows operating systems provide a System Restore option which allows you to return your computer to an earlier operating state (without affecting data files). Using System Restore can be helpful if changes to the system hardware, software, or settings have left the computer in an undesirable operating state. For information on using System Restore, see the Windows Help and Support Center (click Start, then click Help and Support). NOTICE: System Restore does not monitor your data files or recover them. Make regular backups of your data files. Starting System Restore Windows XP: NOTICE: Before you restore the computer to an earlier operating state, save and close any open files and exit any open programs. Do not alter, open, or delete any files or programs until the system restoration process is complete. 136 Reinstalling Software