Not sure what my problem is with my computer

[Computer_Commando]

2.system restore
Do not do 3, which restore the computer to the day it was shipped.
Don't know what 6 does, you'll have to read the Dell docs.

[Computer_Commando]

Turn it off, hold down power button until it shuts off.
What is your Dell Service Tag?
http://www.dell.com/support/troubleshooting/us/en/19/Index

[egrace08]

I don't have a dell service tag

[Computer_Commando]

I don't have a dell service tag

Every Dell has a Service Tag.  On the label on the bottom.
Start reading on p. 265
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/xlob/dtg/en/en_dtg.pdf

[egrace08]

sorry the service tag number is 5wkmdl1

[Computer_Commando]

This is your Dell Laptop:
http://www.dell.com/support/troubleshooting/us/en/19/Index?servicetag=5wkmdl1

Just had it's 2 year birthday on 7/13/2010

[egrace08]

Is this a web site I need to go to to fix my computer.

[Computer_Commando]

You will have to do some homework, can't do it for you from here.
Start reading on p.265 - Restoring Your Operating System
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/xlob/dtg/en/en_dtg.pdf

[egrace08]

ok Thanks for your help

[Computer_Commando]

Let's hope F8 - #2 System Restore works.
Since you are pushing the buttons, you need to understand a little bit what it is going to do.  You only need to read a couple pages of the doc.

[egrace08]

ok I am reading it now..I will let you know

[egrace08]

OK does this mean I will loose all my programs and will have to reprogram like windows, Internet, etc..

[Computer_Commando]

Config says it has Win7, correct?
Instructions are for Vista & XP, so expect some differences.

#2) 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.

#3) 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.

[hartbeatmr]

Good evening egrace08

      I do not know if you are aware of it the #6 option that you asked about the "Dell datasafe" usually give you 2 options 1 for local backup and 2 for online back up if you have a account with Dell when you bought the PC. If the Dell software partition is intact you can use the Datasafe to save your personal items (doc's / pictures / favorites etc) then IF you need to do a factory restore (considered a destructive restore) then you have all your stuff. This link will help explain it http://dslbdownload.datasafelocalbackup.com/dsldownload-en.html

Please keep in mind what "Computer_Commando" was telling on the different restore options that you have.

Hope this helps you, Mike

[patio]

Win7's Repair option leaves everything intact...including apps and data.
It's NOT restore.
Just a heads up.