System Recovery; Choosing A System Recovery Method; System Recovery Options - HP Computer Troubleshooting And Maintenance Manual

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System recovery

System Recovery completely erases and reformats the hard disk drive, deleting all data files you have
created, and then reinstalls the operating system, programs, and drivers. However, you must reinstall
any software that was not installed on the computer at the factory. This includes software that came on
media included in the computer accessory box, and any software programs you installed after
purchase.
NOTE: Always use the System Restore procedure before you use the System Recovery program —
see Microsoft System Restore under Software troubleshooting on page 7.
Some features might not be available on systems that are shipped without a version of Microsoft
Windows.

Choosing a system recovery method

You must choose one of the following methods to perform a System Recovery:
Recovery Image — Run the System Recovery from a recovery image stored on your hard disk
●
drive. The recovery image is a file that contains a copy of the original factory-shipped software. To
perform a System Recovery from a recovery image, see System Recovery from the Windows Start
screen on page 9.
NOTE: The recovery image uses a portion of the hard disk drive that cannot be used for data
storage.
Recovery Media — Run the System Recovery from recovery media that you create from files stored
●
on your hard disk drive or purchased separately. To create recovery media, see Creating recovery
media on page 12.

System Recovery options

You should attempt a System Recovery in the following order:
1. Through the hard disk drive, from the Windows Start screen.
2.
Through the hard disk drive, by pressing F11 on the keyboard during system startup.
3.
Through recovery media that you create.
4. Through recovery discs purchased from HP Support. To purchase recovery discs, visit
http://www.hp.com/go/contactHP.
System Recovery from the Windows Start screen
CAUTION: System Recovery deletes all data and programs you created or installed. Back up any
important data to a removable disc or USB flash drive.
Choosing a system recovery method
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