Reinstall Vista

Reinstalling your Windows Vista operating system is the best way to wipe a system clean and start over. If your computer system has been infected by viruses, or if you are giving away a computer to a new owner, reinstalling Windows Vista is the best way to give it a fresh start. It's a process that many computer-savvy individuals can do without assistance from a "help desk." Follow these steps to reinstall Vista.

Steps

  1. Restart your computer and watch the setup screen for a list of available options. These options will tell you to press a function key, which are the "F" keys at the top of your keyboard. When the screen listing options appears, hit the function key associated with the BIOS. This varies from computer to computer so make sure you press the function key that is listed on your screen.
  2. Look for the "Boot" or "Boot Sequence" option. You will need to navigate around the BIOS menu using your arrow keys, as the mouse will not work in the Windows setup screens. Sometimes the "Boot" or "Boot Sequence" option is located under "Setup" so you may have to hunt around the menu, as it varies from computer to computer. Select the option when you find it.
  3. Change the order of the drives listed under "Boot Priority Setting." Select the DVD drive and move it the first position. Make sure your C drive is in the second position on the list.
  4. Put your Windows Vista installation disc in the DVD drive. Use your arrow keys to navigate to "Save changes" and hit the Enter key. Then choose "Exit." Wait as the computer restarts and loads Windows Vista from the installation disc.
  5. Find the product key on the packaging or the sleeve in which the installation disc came. Enter it when prompted and then click the "Next" button. Read the license agreement and click "Agree" if you agree with it and want to proceed with the installation.
  6. Choose the drive on which you would like to reinstall Windows Vista. A list of available drives will appear on the screen. Most people will choose the C drive. It is best to choose the drive with the most space. Make your selection and then click "Next."
  7. Wait as the installation takes place. The screen will display a progress bar telling you how much time the installation will take. One the install has completed, your computer will restart. When your freshly reinstalled version of Windows Vista loads, the reinstallation will be complete.



Warnings

  • Editing the system BIOS is an advanced computer task. If you are at all uncomfortable about your ability to edit the system BIOS, you may want to get someone who is more knowledgeable about computers to help you.

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Sources and Citations

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