Factory Settings

Question

I have a Dimension E310/3100. I would like to restore my computer back to factory settings but I don't know how to. I learned that my warranty expired so I cannot contact Dell about this without being charged. Does anyone know how to effectively restore back to factory settings? Thanks in advance

jackshack · Answer

What operating system? Windows XP or Vista? If it is Win XP you should be able to use the Dell restore partition. Restart the computer and press CTRL and F11 when you see the F2 and F12 menu appear at the upper right of the screen. Release both at the same time before the blue bar disappears that shows up just before Windows starts to load. If you don't see this, tap the keys as soon as you see the first display as the computer begins the boot process. If successful you should get a menu asking if you wish to restore the computer and warning you that any data or programs you have put on the computer since you got it will be completely erased.

If you have Vista you need to ask this question in the Vista forum. I believe Vista has a restore process you access from the menu you get when you press F8 as Windows begins to load.

Edited to correct an error due to trying to do too many things at once. Thanks for posting Bev, don't know what I was thinking.

Message Edited by JackShack on 05-30-2007 05:00 PM

shesagordie · Answer

DiamondRose412

For XP.
You have Dell's PC Restore by Symantec Utility on the hard drive, that restores the system to factory condition.
How to use the Dell PC Restore by Symantec Utility.

For Vista.
How to Restore a Dell Computer to the Original Factory Configuration for Vista.

Bev.

===================================================
Please don't send me questions about your system by DCF Messenger.
Post the issue in the appropriate Board, where they will be answered.

DiamondRose412 · Answer

Thanks to both of you for your replies. I have XP and I have just backed up my computer so I plan to use the PC Restore because my computer has been behaving oddly and I've only had it for a year. One more question, I have Optimum Online DSL service. After I reset my computer back to factory settings, do I have 2 reinstall my DSL service? I ask because they didn't provide an installation disk but I do have the modem they provided so do I just plug it back in? I guess I will have 2 call them after I restore my pc but thanks to anyone who answers.

shesagordie · Answer

DiamondRose412

Yes, you will have to reinstall the DSL service and applications, installed after you received it, because the computer will be reverted back it's factory condition.

Bev.

===================================================
Please don't send me questions about your system by DCF Messenger.
Post the issue in the appropriate Board, where they will be answered.

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Factory Settings

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