How to Reprogram Windows

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While we would like to think that nothing will ever go wrong with our computers, every once in a while they might need reprogramming. Whether you have been given a used one or have downloaded a program that has you running sluggishly, it is very simple to reprogram or restore your Windows operating system so that your computer is browsing like a new one. Reprogramming or restoring Windows is not the same as reformatting your computer. You will not automatically lose all data or photos with a Windows restore. Just follow a few simple steps and you will be using Windows effortlessly once again. These steps work with both Windows XP and Windows Vista.

Things You'll Need

• PC with Internet connection

Instructions

1. Close all open windows on your computer.

2. Left click on "Start" on your desktop.

3. Highlight "All programs" and from the programs list select "Accessories."

4. From the "Accessories" list, click on "System Tools," and then "System Restore."

5. Select the option of restoring your computer to an earlier time. At this time a window will appear asking you to pick a restore point. The available restore points saved by your computer will be highlighted in bold on the calendar. Select a restore point at which you know your computer was operating well.

6. Read the information on the windows that pop up, and select "OK" when the restore wizard tells you about any system changes the "System Restore" will make to your computer.

7. Wait for the "System Restore" to finish. Do not interrupt the restoration process. When the process is done, the computer will automatically restart and a screen will appear telling you the restoration is complete. Select "OK" and you are ready to go.

8. Reinstall any programs that you may have installed after the date the computer was restored to. Choose wisely, as it may be one of the newly installed programs that had your computer running poorly.

Tips & Warnings

• If after reprogramming Windows with your System Restore your computer still acts up, try restoring it again with a different restore point date. If System Restore fails to help your problem, you may need to completely reinstall your Windows operating system, rather than simply reprogramming it.

• While you will not lose all data with a System Restore, you will lose anything that was added to your computer (programs, favorites, email) after the restore point that you chose to go back to.

Resources

• Read this Article in Portuguese
• Microsoft Windows help and support.