How to Restore Dell Computer

Level of difficulty: Easy

A Dell computer system is easy to restore to its factory settings/ condition. This is used whenever the Operating System, drivers or the settings become corrupted and cannot be repaired.

Materials Needed:
- A Dell computer
- installation CDs of programs and applications
- backup of data and files stored in the computer
Step 1
Before doing anything, create a backup of all the data and files you want to retain. Restoring a Dell Computer to its original state will result in a complete loss of data. To back up, place all personal data in the 'My Documents' folder. Then, burn the folder into a CD/RW, or transfer the data from the Dell Computer to another nearby computer through LAN network. You may also use external hard drives in order to create a backup of all the files you want to save. Do not forget to include the 'Favorites folder' as this contains your address book and contacts. You may use the email backup software for these.
Step 2
Make sure that all recovery media are present. These include the Windows Operating System CD and various application or program CDs. Drivers may be found stored on the online Dell database located at their website. Also, check if the Operating System being used is Windows Vista or Windows XP.
Step 3
Make sure that all recovery media are present. These include the Windows Operating System CD and various application or program CDs. Drivers may be found stored on the online Dell database located at their website. Also check which operating system is being used, if it is Windows Vista or Windows XP.
Step 4
Turn on the computer. When you see the splash screen of Dell in the computer startup, press <Ctrl>, then while holding that key, press <F11>. After, both keys should be released simultaneously.
Step 5
When you see the Symantec window labeled 'Dell PC Restore,' look for 'Restore' and click on it. Then press <Tab> to highlight 'Restore' and after press <Enter>. A window with the message warning you about the probability of data loss will appear. When this happens, click 'Confirm' or press <Tab> to highlight 'Confirm' and press <Enter>.
Step 6
The 'Progress' window will then appear. This indicates that the restoration process have already started, and will take around 10 minutes. A message 'The system recovery process was successful' will then appear when the restoration process is complete.
Step 7
Click 'Finish' or press <Tab> to highlight 'Finish' and press <Enter> to restart. This final step restores the Dell Computer to its factory settings. After, you may now install the Windows Operating System and applications or programs of your choice as well as bring back your documents.


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