I want to get my computer back to factory basic operations I have windows xp can anyone help?

Question

I want to remove all unnecessary files from my computer and get my windows operating system back to the way it was from the factory, it is a second hand computer from a friend so I really don't know what all was on it before I got it can anyone help?

Answer 1

OK, if you have a dell you can do this: When the Dell splash screen appears, press + and release them at the same time. (only works on some systems)

On any other computer, if you have the Windows OS cd, then put it in and restart. It will say 'press any key to boot from removable media,' or something like that. Then you can do a complete clean install of windows following these- http://windowsxp.mvps.org/XPClean.htm - direction.

Answer 2

List of items pertaining to factory defaults.

http://search.dell.com/results.aspx?s=dhs&c=us&l=en&cs=%0A19&cat=sup&k=factory+restore


This will not clean up any files created by your friend. Allow yourself some time and manually go through and delete files you don't want (careful of system files).

Then review this before use:

Advanced WindowsCare Personal 2.4.1.790
Source: http://www.download.com/Advanced-WindowsCare/3000-2086-10407614.html
License:Free
Requirements: Windows 2000/XP/Vista

Slow down, freeze, crash and security threats are over. Advanced WindowsCare Personal is a comprehensive PC care utility that takes an one-click approach to help protect, repair and optimize your computer. It provides an all-in-one and super convenient solution for PC maintenance and protection. All work will be done with 1 click and 1 minute. This fantastic program is available free of charge. Compared with its nearest competitor, Advanced WindowsCare Personal provides the more essential and practical formula for Windows: Removing Spyware and Adware, Preventing Security Threats, Privacy Protection, Fixing Registry Errors, Temporary Files Cleanup, Startup Cleanup, Repairing Windows, Speeding up System and 1-click Mechanism.
Version 2.4.1.790 fixes bugs in language pack and Registry Scan module.

Answer 3

This is how I put Windows XP onto my system when Millenium Edition became unsustainable: Make sure you have a good data recovery program, and you know how to use it, just in case. Then, Using the Control Panel's "System Restore" menu, click "set system restore point". Select a time closest to now. Then, back up all the data you want to keep, twice, in two different locations than your internal drive, if you have that kind of storage space (if you don't, invest in it before you attempt this, is my advice). Then, disconnect your external drives, and format your internal ones. After formatting, reinstall your chosen OS, and reconnect your external drives. It takes a long time, and an investment in data storage, but it's worth it to have access to your data run smooth.

Answer 4

You will need to use the software that came with the PC, or contact the manufacturer (some PC manufacturers don't include the software on separate disk but put it on a hidden partition on the hard drive). Also be aware that unless a format is done, the non-windows software will still be out there taking up space (you'll see the folders when viewing the drive folders).

You can also use the "Add/Remove programs" in the control panel to remove unwanted software.

Answer 5

Did you receive all the restore discs that came with the computer. You can delete alot of stuff by going to Add/Remove programs. Hope this is helpful to you and Good Luck !

Answer 6

You need to do a system restore you probably have disks that came with the computer.