Reimage a Computer

Re-imaging a computer is the process to reformat the hard drive and repair damaged partitions. All the data stored on your computer gets erased from the hard drive and you restore your computer's operating system back to its original state. The reasons for re-imaging your computer can vary. Perhaps you got a virus that has damaged or corrupted your operating system or after months or years of use, you notice that your computer is not performing as well as it used to. These are for Microsoft Windows computers only.

Steps

  1. Back up all your important data and files on an external hard drive or discs before re-imaging your computer. Sometimes you cannot back up your data because a virus has corrupted your hard drive and it is too late to try to back them up. It is important to backup your files if at all possible.
  2. Insert the Windows Installation CD, also known as a "restore" disc into your computer's hard drive. Most computers and laptops come with an installation CD when you purchase it.
  3. Restart your computer and wait for it to boot up. You will be prompted to boot the installation CD. Press any key on your keyboard to start the Windows Installation CD.
  4. Press 'ENTER' once uploading has completed. Depending on what kind of PC you have and what version of Windows you are using, wait times will vary.
  5. Press the 'F8' key to accept the Windows license agreement.
  6. Highlight which hard drive partition you want to re-image by using the up and down arrows on your keyboard and press the 'ENTER' key to select the highlighted partition. In many cases, this partition is commonly known as the 'C' Drive.
  7. Set up the accounts and preferences for your system following the directions on the screen. Depending on your PC, it can take at least 1 hour or more to re-image your computer.



Tips

  • Start backing up your system regularly on an external hard drive or discs. This will help in the event that your hard drive gets corrupted and you lose all your important data.
  • If you have misplaced the Windows Installation CD, visit your computer vendor's website or call the vendor directly to order a replacement CD. Fees and shipping charges may apply.
  • Microsoft has a toll-free number available for questions or ordering a replacement Windows Installation CD. The general support number is 1-800-642-7676. Hours are weekdays from 5 a.m. - 9 p.m. and weekends from 6 a.m. - 3 p.m., Pacific Time.

Warnings

  • You will need to re-install any special programs you had on your computer after the re-imaging process has completed. Make sure you have the installation discs for these types of programs.

Things You'll Need

  • External hard drive or discs
  • Windows Installation CD or Restore CD

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Sources and Citations

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