Computer Hope

Microsoft => Microsoft Windows => Windows XP => Topic started by: chuchu61190 on December 14, 2008, 09:03:22 PM

Title: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: chuchu61190 on December 14, 2008, 09:03:22 PM

Im not sure how to perform a system recovery. I believe that is the way to make it so i can start my computer from scratch
i was wondering if you guys could take me on a step by step process
thanks

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: JJ 3000 on December 14, 2008, 09:57:21 PM

Do you have your windows CD?

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: chuchu61190 on December 14, 2008, 10:04:27 PM

i do not have the CD handy at the moment but id like to know the process of doin this

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: Broni on December 14, 2008, 10:32:19 PM

You need Windows CD, or Recovery CD. Your computer may also have Recovery Partition. There is no other way around.

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: chuchu61190 on December 14, 2008, 10:49:45 PM

how would i kno if i have a recovery partition?

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: Broni on December 14, 2008, 11:06:58 PM

What is the brand, and model of your computer? How old?

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: chuchu61190 on December 14, 2008, 11:08:37 PM

Emachine
Model Number is t5026
Its about 8 years old

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: Broni on December 14, 2008, 11:17:40 PM

Restart computer, and watch the screen closely.
At some point, while still with black screen, you'll see some options at the bottom of the screen.
If you see something like:
F11 - recovery/restoration (or something similar)
it means, you have Recovery Partition.
(I believe, it's F11 key in eMachines case)
If you press F11, you may/may not have further options:

Non-Destructive System Restore (Recommended) recovers the operating system, all programs, and hardware drivers that were installed at the factory. Your data files should not be damaged with this process.

Full System Restore (Destructive) reformats the hard drive and restores the system software as it was when you purchased your computer. Your data files are not restored with this process.

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: chuchu61190 on December 14, 2008, 11:20:08 PM

I think il go with the second option
cuz id like to start from scratch with this computer

once i do that
wont i need a disk or two
to do another process of installing Windows again?

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: Broni on December 14, 2008, 11:29:29 PM

No. You should be OK. The computer will be restored to its original state, like you got it from the store.
If any problem arises, check here: http://emachines.com/support/product_support.html?cat=Desktops&subcat=T%20Series&model=T5026, or post back.

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: chuchu61190 on December 14, 2008, 11:47:30 PM

Thanks

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: Broni on December 14, 2008, 11:49:18 PM

You're welcome :)

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: chuchu61190 on December 15, 2008, 01:24:56 AM

well
i followed all the instructions
now that its a new start
i was wondering if you had any pointers on how i should protect my computer

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: Fordtruckmaniac on December 15, 2008, 02:28:26 AM

Anti Virus program, spyware/malware  programs.

www.filehippo.com  ,   plenty to choose from.



8 years old, you running, Windows 98?

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: Broni on December 15, 2008, 09:06:43 AM

I assume, all went well, right?

- Avast! free antivirus: http://filehippo.com/download_avast_antivirus/
- Avira free antivirus: http://www.free-av.com/en/download/index.html


- free Comodo Internet Security (firewall + AV): http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/

If you decide to install Avast, or Avira, make sure, Windows firewall is turned on.
If you decide to install Comodo, make sure, Windows firewall is turned off.

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: chuchu61190 on December 15, 2008, 10:57:42 AM

alright
thanks for the links
its good to kno that my computer is protected

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: Broni on December 15, 2008, 04:39:39 PM

You're welcome :)

Title: Re: Well id like to reformat my whole Computer
Post by: elliwigy on December 17, 2008, 04:29:55 PM

Norton is a common software used by alot of people, but note that it takes up tons of resources and can actually bog your computer.  Avast! is a good free anti virus software.  It is also recommended that you get some type of spyware and adware removal software.  A good site I get items from is www.pctools.com they have some good software if your willing to spend a little money!

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