Need a bit of help.

WhiskeyGoblin

Right, well basically i want to format my hard drive, but i want to keep my OS. I have no restore disc or anything, it didn't come with it. So my question, is there anyway i can do this?
Thanks
Mark

Biggins

You could use certain types of back-up software - but to use those, you might be also backing up anything that you are also wishing top be rid of!

Why do you want to format it may I ask?

For free back-up tools, look here: http://www.makeuseof.com/pages/best-windows-software

WhiskeyGoblin

Over the past year, i've just gathered so much crap on it. I just want a fresh start with my laptop, lately it's been getting slower aswell, i have everything i need backed to an external. Now if i could just sort this out

old_aussie

If you got the laptop new, and there was no restore discs, then the first instruction is to basically create the discs yourself.

Look on the internet and see how to create the restore discs for your brand and model laptop.

old_aussie

The registration/activation code for your OS should be on the base of the laptop.

Just get an OEM version of the OS and enter the code when prompted for activation.

Biggins

If its just a clean up, I would suggest using a tool like the excellent Tuneup Utilities - found here: http://www.tune-up.com/products/tuneup-utilities/?utm_campaign=tuu2010&utm_medium=software&utm_source=menu&utm_content=homepage&x-rest=

johnny25clare

Ok first of all what kind of system have you many companies dont give you a disk with the computer instead all the preinstalled software and drivers are in a hidden partition on your hard disk and tells you to make the boot disks yourself the other way of getting at this partition is to remove the hard drive and connect it to another system then you may see the hidden partition and then copy it or the easiest way around this is to get your product key via usually on the computer case or use software like winkeyfinder to find your product key and then download your version of windows via torrent which is perfectly legal because you are using a purchased product key and reinstall windows let me know if any questions

WhiskeyGoblin

If i fully format my drive and had a restore disc, would it disable the keys on my keyboard? Like the mapping of them? (im on a laptop btw, i thought this section would have the most viewers)

Biggins

marko93 wrote: »

If i fully format my drive and had a restore disc, would it disable the keys on my keyboard? Like the mapping of them? (im on a laptop btw, i thought this section would have the most viewers)

Make a note of the make of laptop your using and any corresponding specific model number.

Check then on the manufacturers site in their section usually called "support" or such like.
In there should be specific downloadable drivers for your particular system. Burn them if desired and necessary on to cd/dvd and/or usb connectible external drive.
DO THIS AS A PRIORY - ESPECIALLY BEFORE A FORMAT.
If unsure what to download in your section (sometimes there are choices) and your able to, download everything specify to what you think is related to your system.

WhiskeyGoblin

For the life of me i cannot find a restore disc, so a slow and painful uninstalling process has begun. On the plus side i learnt a lesson. Maintain my laptop. Got that tuneup and it helps a considerable amount. Thanks for all the help and input.