How to Recover an HP Compaq DC7100 With XP
- 1). Store any user data from your hard drive on blank media discs. Everything will be lost when the hard drive is reformatted, so make backups of important files.
- 2). Disconnect all external devices from the computer's ports that are not essential for the machine's operation. Do not unplug the monitor, mouse or keyboard.
- 3). Go to "Start," "All Programs" and "Compaq Tools," then select "HP PC System Recovery" from the list of options on the pop-up screen. The "Starting PC Recovery" message will now come up on your computer screen. Click "Yes" when prompted to restart your computer.
- 4). Click "Yes" when the welcome screen appears after your machine restarts. Click "Next" on the following screen, then "OK" to begin a standard recovery. Alternatively, click "Advanced," "Destructive Recovery" and "Next" to reformat your hard drive and reinstall Windows XP.
- 5). Respond to the prompts on the next few screens, then wait as your computer restarts. Configure the new installation of XP by making the appropriate selections on the following screens, such as the date, time and other preferences.
- 6). Replace antivirus software and updates on the machine, as well as any data or applications that were stored while making backup discs. Your HP Compaq dc7100 is now recovered and functional.