New Computer? Do this first!

Before you do anything else make a set of "Restore" CDs !!!!!!!!!

When you open the box, check to see if the restore CDs or DVDs are included. Most computers today do not include them.

You are expected to make your own. So what are restore CDs/DVDs & why do I need them?

If you don't know, it's education time. Read carefully. If you do know or have done this already, skip down the page a ways.

Fact: Restore CDs are a set of CD's (or DVDs) that contain all the files that came with your computer.

Fact: Restore CDs are needed if your original hard drive dies & you have to install a new one.

Fact: Restore CDs are not included with most name brand computers today.

Fact: Most buyers don't know this. When all else fails- read the manual. It will tell you if you need to make your own & how to do it.

January 2010 update: I just helped a friend open a new computer with Windows 7 and it reminds you to make the restore DVDs with a pop up message. Not sure if it is the manufacturer or Windows. I'll know more after I have done a few.

Myth: The computer instructions say something like this: In the event of a catastophic failure, you can restore your original software by using the command that shows up on the startup screen to restore original software. The truth is that those files are on the hard drive. If the hard drive works, you can restore the original software (and of course lose all your stuff). The truth is that if your hard drive fails, the original files are lost as well. So the myth is that you can restore your computer under any failure conditions. The truth is that if your hard drive fails, you must have the original files on a set of CDs or DVDs to install the original software on a new hard drive. And of course this only happens when there is no more support from the manufacturer. (Murphy's Law!)

HP is very good about supplying a set of CDs for older models for a price. I got a set recently for a customer for $16. But Gateway/EMachine is another story. I tried to get a set of CDs for a 2 year old Gateway. I was told they delete all files for any compouter out of warranty!!! I could not get the motherboard drivers to even load a new OS.

You have 2 choices: Make your own set (before the hard drive dies) or buy them from the manufacturer. HP is very good about supplying restore CDs if you have the serial number. Cost is $15-$20. Other manufacturers are not so nice. Someone gave me a Gateway that is just out of warranty. It had been restored with XP, not with original software. I needed the original files to make the sound work. Gateway said they do not support machines that are past warranty. They delete all access to the files needed and cannot supply restore CDs.

2011- I just bought a set of restore DVDs for a Toshiba laptop with Vista on it. Toshiba said they only do this for "current models". Not sure what that means but I was able to get these. Cost was $25 shipped.

Second, go to www.belarc.com and download the free advisor program. Run it & it will list all your registration numbers. Save it and print it. The most important data you will get here is the Windows registration number. This is not available anywhere else except on the original packaging or a sticker on the computer case.

Once you have made or obtained the restore CDs, you need to make some changes to your computer. Continue to the next page for instructions on what to do next.