Factory Reset, no backup.

[manderinorange26]

Hello, I have a Dell computer that I need to reset to factory settings. I am no really interested in backing anything up because all important files have been removed, we are just setting it up for a new employee. There has been problems on this computer for months and I feel like this might help. Also, I tried to insert a disk as a backup but the computer does not seem to have a burner. There is also no network to connect to.

 

[Stirb6]

You will need to find a windows sticker on the computer, normally on Dell's Desktops its on the back or top and laptops its under the battery. See if it says Windows Home or Pro, then go find someone or ask Dell(if still under warranty) to send you out a Windows install disk. From there you can find guides online to help you.

 

[Wile E Coyote]

What kinda dell is it.??

I can find the info for you.

 

[manderinorange26]

Thank you, I found the sticker and it says "Windows Vista Business"

 

[manderinorange26]

What kinda dell is it.??
Vostro 200

 

[Wile E Coyote]

Thank you, I found the sticker and it says "Windows Vista Business"

(Note) You will need the Recovery disk that came with your computer.

1. Restart the computer.
2. As the computer restarts, press the F8 key until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears on the screen.

Note:
You must press F8 before the Windows logo appears on the screen. If you press F8 after the Windows logo appears, the Advanced Boot Options menu does not appear on the screen. If you do not see the Advanced Boot Options menu, restart the computer, and then repeat this step until you see the menu on the screen.

3. Press the (Down Arrow) to select Repair Your Computer on the Advanced Boot Options menu, and then press Enter.

4. Specify the language settings that you want, and then click Next.

5. Log in as a user who has administrative credentials, and then click OK.

6. Click Dell Factory Image Restore.

7. In the Dell Factory Image Restore window, click Next.

8. Click to select the check box for Yes, reformat hard drive and restore system software to factory condition.

9. Click Next. The computer is restored to the default factory configuration.

10. When the restore operation is completed, click Finish to restart the computer.

 

[manderinorange26]

I tried that already and that is where I am getting snagged. It says there is no Factory Image. When I try to make one it will not back up because I do not have a burner and can not connect to a network. I just spoke to HR and they are looking for the original windows disk. They are pretty sure we have it. If I reinstall the windows would that help me reset? The dang thing just crashes constantly.

 

[Wile E Coyote]

I tried that already and that is where I am getting snagged. It says there is no Factory Image. When I try to make one it will not back up because I do not have a burner and can not connect to a network. I just spoke to HR and they are looking for the original windows disk. They are pretty sure we have it. If I reinstall the windows would that help me reset? The dang thing just crashes constantly.

If you have the original disk i would just do a fresh install.It would probably be easier.

But yes it should.

 

[manderinorange26]

Thank you, I will wait to see if we can find the disc

 

[Wile E Coyote]

No problem.

Just a heads up if you go to do a fresh install of windows.Make sure in BIOS you switch the boot option for your CD/rom as your first boot.Then after your install is done switch it back to the drive this way it will not cause conflict.

 

[manderinorange26]

No problem.

Just a heads up if you go to do a fresh install of windows.Make sure in BIOS you switch the boot option for your CD/rom as your first boot.Then after your install is done switch it back to the drive this way it will not cause conflict.

When I am done with the install do I just go back to the boot page and change it there?

 

[Wile E Coyote]

No problem.

Just a heads up if you go to do a fresh install of windows.Make sure in BIOS you switch the boot option for your CD/rom as your first boot.Then after your install is done switch it back to the drive this way it will not cause conflict.

When I am done with the install do I just go back to the boot page and change it there?

Yes that is correct