How to Recover Windows
Everyone knows how hard it is to find good help such as the maid that refuses to do windows. Sometimes even Windows refuses to do Windows and you end up with either an unstable operating system that generates countless error messages or a computer that refuses to boot. If you ask how to recover Windows, you'll get all kinds of advice ranging from "reinstall Windows" to "buy a Mac." That's not much help, is it? While you could reinstall the operating system or buy a new computer, your main problem remains: your data is still missing.
While computers are easy to replace, the data that you rely on isn't. This is why you must learn how to recover Windows regardless of whether you'll be replacing your computer or not.
First, if your computer is functioning, you can boot up, and the hard drive is not making grinding or clicking sounds, backup your data files. This little piece of insurance will give you peace of mind as you try some of the next steps.
How to Recover Windows with System Restore
System Restore is a feature available on Windows XP and above operating systems. If Windows has become unstable and you can boot your PC, try restoring it to a previous restore point. System Restore is useful after virus or spyware attacks, failed installations of software, and after you've installed new hardware or drivers and have found that Windows is unresponsive or sluggish. Go to Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, System Restore and follow the prompts.
How to Recover Windows using System File Check
If Windows is unresponsive due to damaged system files, you can use the System File Check utility to scan your Windows operating system files. This utility replaces damaged, corrupt, or missing Windows system files with fresh copies of the files in question. You may need your original Windows installation discs if files must be replaced. To use System File Check in Windows XP or above, go to Start, select Run, type in "sfc" and hit OK.
How to Recover Windows using the Repair Function in Setup
Your Windows XP or above installation disc should have an option under setup to repair Windows. Boot your PC from the installation disc and enter the Setup mode. You'll see the following choices:
1. To set up Windows now, press enter
2. To repair a Windows installation using the Recovery Console, press R
3. To quit setup without installing Windows, press F3
Choose option 1. Avoid the Recovery Console unless you're a computer expert who knows what you are doing. Option number one will give you a choice to repair or replace your operating system. Choose the Repair option by pressing "R." This option reinstalls portions of the operating system yet all of your data, programs, and other settings remain in place.
The process looks like a reinstall but only the system files are being replaced. Once the process is complete, you will need to update your operating system to get it back up to date with the latest security fixes and patches.
These are a few initial steps you can try if your operating system is unstable and hasn't completely crashed yet.
