How do I restore the system?
Depending on the extent of the damage, you have a couple of different options for restoring it. Among the more common system restoration strategies are: System Restore, running the System File Checker Utility, and an operating system repair.
System Restore
Both Windows XP and Windows Vista come with a built-in utility called System Restore. In order for System Restore to do any good, System Protection must be turned on. If it is turned on, then your computer will automatically take snapshots (called restore points) of its current configuration and settings. Should something (such as damaged system files, missing device drivers, or strange computer errors) go awry, System Restore allows you to pick a restore point and restore your system to its operating condition at that point in time.
System Restore is located in the System Tools folder (Start > Programs > Accessories > System Tools > System Restore).
The System File Checker Utility
Windows also comes with a lesser known utility, the System File Checker utility. This utility may require your Windows installation CD if it finds any corrupt files though it often retrieves fresh copies of files in a system folder. The SFC utility scans your operating system files to make sure that they are in place and properly working. If it comes across a damaged or missing file, it replaces it with a clean copy from the Windows CD or the System32\dllcache folder. If your operating system is acting up, it could be due to a damaged component that SFC can find and replace.
To run this utility, go to the Start button and access Run. Type in: sfc /scannow
Repairing the Operating System
If System Restore and the System File Checker don’t solve the problem, repairing the operating system may do it. This step requires your Windows installation CD. You must insert the disc into your CD drive and temporarily change your BIOS so that Windows boots from CD. To change BIOS, boot your computer and press the key that the onscreen display indicates must be pressed to enter BIOS or Setup. Look for a “boot order” option and change the order so that the CD drive is the first place that BIOS checks for boot instructions. Once your computer is prepared, reboot it with the Windows CD in the drive.
This will launch the Windows Setup program. You will need to press Enter and agree to the license agreement. (Note: despite its name, don’t select the Recovery Console). Once you’ve agreed to the terms, you should see a screen prompting you to select your operating system and an option “Press ‘R’ to repair Windows.” Select your operating system and press ‘R.’ From there, follow any onscreen prompts. While it will look like an installation is taking place, don’t worry. The operating system is being repaired, not reinstalled. Your data will be fine.
Celeste Stewart | July 21st, 2009
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