How to Reset a PC
Many problems can be resolved by resetting a PC. You can return to a time when the computer was working better, override obnoxious or accidentally installed software, take advantage of the browser default settings and fend off homepage takeovers by intrusive software.
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Instructions
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Reset Your Computer to Make It Work Like New
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Use Microsoft System Recovery to return your computer to a healthier state. Left-click the Start menu and point to All Programs. Point to Accessories, then System Tools. Click on System Restore. Follow the prompts in the software. After selecting either "Restore" or "Set Restore Point," click the "Next" button. Click "OK."
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Run the system defrag program. Click on the Start menu. Point to All Programs, then Accessories. Point to System Tools, then click on Disk Defragmenter. Click on the "Defragment" button.
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Close the Defragment program after it finishes reorganizing your files. This will smooth out the cracks in your system, save space and make file paths easier for your computer to find.
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Restart your computer. Your computer will now be reset to a point when it was operating better, and by using the defrag program, you will have tidied everything up so the machine will work without any quirks.
Reset the Browser, Email, and Instant Messenger Settings
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Click the Start button.
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Point to All Programs.
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Click on Set Program Access and Defaults.
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Click on Computer Manufacturer.
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Click "OK." Your browser, email and instant messenger settings will now be reset to the manufacturer’s specifications.
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Tips & Warnings
It may be a good idea to create a backup disk before resetting your computer.
