Dell Alienware Area-51 Alienware Desktop Manual - Page 60

Recovery Options NOTE: Back up all data before initiating a system recovery. Backup functionality is included in AlienRespawn v2.0, but as a precaution it is recommended to backup critical files onto an external media before initiating recovery. AlienRespawn v2.0 offers three methods for system recovery. Each option offers a unique combination of restoration and data-backup features. The details of each method are described below. Microsoft System Restore This option provides access to Microsoft System Restore points stored on your computer without having to enter Windows itself. For more information on System Restore, see "Help and Support" within Windows. This option is best for driver or operating system file corruption. It allows recovery through System Restore even if Windows cannot be accessed and resolves many operating system-related problems without altering user-created files. System Restore points stored on your hard drive must be intact. If these files or the hard drive itself have been damaged, System Restore may not be accessible. Although System Restore resolves many operating system problems, it is possible for significant problems, such as certain types of virus or spyware infections, to persist after recovery. CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERY Advanced Recovery This method completely reformats your hard drive and return your computer to its original factory configuration resolving all software or configuration issues. This option is best for most software related issues. A backup of your entire current hard drive will be created in C:\BACKUP, from which data files may be copied to permanent locations. Once you have retrieved all desired files, this directory may be safely deleted. In cases of virus or spyware infection, it is advisable to thoroughly scan and clean C:\BACKUP prior to copying files out of it; for this reason, it is recommended that you install and run your preferred third-party antivirus or antispyware utilities prior to retrieving your data. If viruses or spyware were present prior to running AlienRespawn v2.0, there is a chance of re-infection from backup files if these are not successfully cleaned. Factory System Recovery This option is for last-resort system recovery. This method completely reformats your hard drive and returns your computer to its configuration as shipped. This is a complete system recovery - the entire configuration is restored to its factory default state, resolving all software and configuration issues. Viruses or spyware will be eliminated. However, it is advised that you scan all external storage media to prevent re-infection. No data backup will be performed. All saved data will be lost. 060 /060