How to Fix Your Computer when System Restore Will Not Work

You've caught the latest rootkit roaming the Internet. Perhaps your kid decided to see what would happen if he formatted your c:\ drive. Regardless of the cause, you computer will not work. You want to use Windows System Restore but it gives you an error or your computer will not boot at all. What to do?

The first step is to walk away. Smashing the computer accomplishes nothing at this point. You do not have to spend hundreds of dollars having a professional repair your computer or buying another one. Drink a cup of your favourite beverage and take a few deep breaths before re-approaching your computer.

Turn your computer on and look for signs of a factory restore command as it boots. Each computer is different but most will show a message similar to: "Press [key] to restore your computer." Press the key or combination specified and follow the prompts to return your computer to factory condition.***

If you do not see indications of a restore command or this step does not work you still have options available. Write down the brand, model number and serial number of your computer. Call your computer manufacturer with this information and request a set of restore discs for your computer. There may be a nominal charge for these discs.

If your computer is older the manufacturer may not have restore discs for your particular model. If this is the case do not despair. Ask family and friends if they have restore discs for a computer similar to yours. Sometimes you will be able to locate a set of restore discs that will work using this method. You will never know what discs your friends have squirreled away unless you ask!

If you have struck out on the above two methods, go online to http://www.restoredisks.com/. This company keeps a large stockpile of restore discs and will send you a set designed for your computer for a fee. Order the discs and wait until they arrive.

Your restore disc set will contain instructions specific to your particular computer. Follow these instructions and enjoy your newly repaired computer!

Prevention is the Key:

Most computer systems have a program for creating a set of restore discs built into the system. The icon is normally located on the desktop, but sometimes it is buried under the Program Files under Start. If you do not see an icon on your Desktop, visit the help section on your computer and search for "restore disc creation." This will guide you through creating your own personal set of restore discs for your computer before disaster strikes!

***WARNING: some programs will cause you to lose ALL data stored on the computer. If you have data you cannot afford to lose, stop now and contact an authorized repair professional.

Note:

Hardware conditions such as a failed hard disk will require the extra step of physically replacing the failed disk. This step is beyond the scope of this tutorial.

Sources:
Computer repair training
Personal experience