Working to make IT work for you and your business.
See also: backup page.
Sometimes, such as after installing a new item of software, the computer is not behaving as usual; or during start up the computer gets so far and then sticks or Windows© displays an error message. The most common reason for this is that the Windows registry has become corrupted, or damaged. The registry is the collection of settings which windows keeps about the computer's hardware and any software loaded on it.
Windows XP has a built in "System Restore" feature which allow you to restore the system to how it was at an earlier time. But if that can't be use for any reason, there is also "Automated System Recovery" which allow you to rebuild the system from special backup. But need to have made one before any problems start!
For earlier versions of windows you can make Emergency Repair Disc (ERD) called a 'Startup disc' in Windows 95/98
Automated System Recovery (ASR)When you can't use system restore or other methods, you can try using Automatic System Recovery. This will need a previous prepared ASR backup and ASR Floppy disc.. So these are prepared as insurance in case a problem arises. To perform an ASR backup you will need a backup system such as tape drive or portable hard disc with enough capacity (several gigabytes). From the 'Start' menu select the Backup program within Windows: Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools -> Backup.
Choose the Automated System Recovery Wizard and follow the on screen instructions.
Note that before you begin a recovery you will need three items
For full information on making and using an ASR Backup see http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/maintain/asr.mspx
If you are using an earlier version of Windows© you can make an Emergency Repair Disc (or Startup Disc) you will need a blank floppy disc to hand.
| Windows 2000 | Launch the Backup program, and from the "Tools" menu choose "Create and Emergency Repair Disc". | |
| Windows NT 4.0 | From the "Start" menu, click on 'Run' and type in 'rdisk' the launch the utility. |
It is recommended that you update your Emergency Repair Disc about once a month