How to Install Vista on an IBM Laptop From a Dell Recovery CD

Microsoft's Windows Vista operating system was released in 2007. With its release, Vista replaced Windows XP as the default operating system on PCs sold by computer retailers like IBM and Dell. Occasionally, a computer with system-data corruption or other software issues can be restored to full functionality by doing a reinstall of Vista using the recovery CD that came with the original computer.

Instructions

1. Back up all computer data on the IBM laptop. Reinstalling Vista using a recovery CD will completely erase all previously installed software and files, including personal documents and photos.

2. Restart the laptop. Upon a successful rebooting, insert the Dell recovery CD into the laptop's CD-ROM/DVD drive.

3. Open and run the recovery disc. A window will appear that will welcome you to the Windows Vista Recovery Center.

4. Click on "System Restore" in the Recovery Center's welcome screen. Other options include the ability to roll back your computer to a previously saved backup; ignore these extra options.

5. Wait for the recovery disc to run and complete the recovery process. This process will wipe your hard drive completely clean and reinstall the Vista system files needed to run Vista. The end result will be a completely cleaned system interface, just like your computer had when you got it from your retailer.

Tips & Warnings

• Set aside an afternoon to run the recovery process, as it takes a long time.

• Always back up your data, even when you are not reinstalling Vista.