Recovery Options - Dell Alienware Area-51 Manual

Recovery Options

NOTE: Back up all data before initiating a system recovery. Backup
functionality is included in AlienRespawn v2.0, but as a precaution it is
recommended to backup critical files onto an external media before
initiating recovery.
AlienRespawn v2.0 offers three methods for system recovery. Each option offers
a unique combination of restoration and data-backup features. The details of
each method are described below.
Microsoft System Restore
This option provides access to Microsoft System Restore points stored on your
computer without having to enter Windows itself. For more information on
System Restore, see "Help and Support" within Windows.
This option is best for driver or operating system file corruption. It allows recovery
through System Restore even if Windows cannot be accessed and resolves many
operating system-related problems without altering user-created files.
System Restore points stored on your hard drive must be intact. If these files or
the hard drive itself have been damaged, System Restore may not be accessible.
Although System Restore resolves many operating system problems, it is
possible for significant problems, such as certain types of virus or spyware
infections, to persist after recovery.
Advanced Recovery
This method completely reformats your hard drive and return your computer to
its original factory configuration resolving all software or configuration issues.
This option is best for most software related issues.
A backup of your entire current hard drive will be created in C:\BACKUP, from
which data files may be copied to permanent locations. Once you have retrieved
all desired files, this directory may be safely deleted.
In cases of virus or spyware infection, it is advisable to thoroughly scan and clean
C:\BACKUP prior to copying files out of it; for this reason, it is recommended that
you install and run your preferred third-party antivirus or antispyware utilities
prior to retrieving your data.
If viruses or spyware were present prior to running AlienRespawn v2.0, there is a
chance of re-infection from backup files if these are not successfully cleaned.
Factory System Recovery
This option is for last-resort system recovery.
This method completely reformats your hard drive and returns your computer
to its configuration as shipped. This is a complete system recovery – the entire
configuration is restored to its factory default state, resolving all software and
configuration issues. Viruses or spyware will be eliminated. However, it is advised
that you scan all external storage media to prevent re-infection.
No data backup will be performed. All saved data will be lost.
CHAPTER 7: SYSTEM RECOVERY
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