Restoring Factory Settings

hxm

Please could somebody tell me if I am likely to have any problem re-installing XP and Microsoft Office and Internet access after if I re-set my PC to "Restore Factory Settings"?

Several family members use my PC on a regular basis and gremlins have got in somewhere. I'm planning to upgrade to Windows 10 when it's available but need an interim solution.

I have backed up all the files onto an external hard disk drive. I'm happy to re-install programmes as and when I need them. I have the original installation CDs and the Product Key code for XP, which is the only OS I've ever had on here. I think I'm ready to go, but I'm techno-phobic and nervous about doing it. Any reassurance, hints and tips welcomed!

Thanks

NiftyDigits

Brand name and full model number of PC?

hxm

DELL Vostro 200

NiftyDigits

Let me know the Service Tag

Do you have an empty USB flash drive to hand?

hxm

Sorry, got called away yesterday.

Service tag is F7D4C3J

I have a flash drive but it's got stuff on it

NiftyDigits

hxm wrote: »

Sorry, got called away yesterday.

Service tag is F7D4C3J

I have a flash drive but it's got stuff on it

So transfer the contents elsewhere...it needs to be empty.
What capacity?

hxm

okay, it's 4GB

NiftyDigits

Pop the USB Flash drive into any PC/laptop....

Download and run Rufus

You can leave the settings at the Default shown here:



Now you can click Start.

Let me know when that is done.

Note that I have edited this guide from when I first posted it. That is because the Rufus screenshot had been updated without me noticing it.

The guide is fine now.
So if you had already begun, start again.

hxm

okay, it's done!

NiftyDigits

Oops...I'll get the next bit ready, girlfriend and dog distracting me.
Did you notice that I had changed the guide?

hxm

I was a bit quick off the mark, I read your updated post and ran it again

Thanks