First, buy a USB thumb drive that has the capacity to store your personal datat or, if you can afford it, a USB external Hard Drive.
The latter is preferred as you will be able to use it to store a system image or regularly schedule backups of your personal data or both.
Once you've moved your personal data, you have these choices -
Which OEM ( Dell, Gateway, HP, Acer, etc. ) made your computer ?
1.
a. Create a System Recovery Disk now. Open Control Panel >System and Security >
Back up your computerClick the 'Create a system repair disc' in the left frame. Agree to the UAC prompt.
Insert a blank DVD in the DVD burner tray and follow the instructions.
This disk may give you an option to do a Repair of Windows 7. It comes in very handy when a software or driver issue first appears and there is difficulty starting the computer.
The disk can be used to access System Restore in order to roll the system back to just before the software or driver was installed.
Same for any adverse issues caused by the installation of a troublesome Windows Update or, if used properly, a recent minor malware compromise.
b. Contact the OEM and ask how much they would charge for a System Recovery Disk. Some OEMs offer such disks that can be used to do a Repair Installation of Windows 7 will which retain your personal data.
- Depending on the OEM, sometimes you can run the Repair Installation from the hidden recovery partition. To access that option there has to be an OEM restore/backup option on the Boot Menu. Such an option would be towards the bottom of the options and be
clearly labeled.
- Do a format and clean reinstallation of Windows 7 using the hidden OEM supplied partition.
When the computer first boots up press the F8 key repeatedly. If Windows loads, you did not press the key in time, restart it again.
When you press the F8 key in time you'll see a boot menu.
At the very top, towards the left is Repair your computer.
Click that link.
That will start you on the steps towards a clean reinstallation of Windows 7 and all personal documents will be lost.
MowGreen
Windows Expert IT Pro - Consumer Security
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