How to Restore a Gateway Laptop
Gateway laptops, like most PCs, are almost always shipped with Windows XP or Vista. Restoring them is the same process regardless of the computer's manufacturer. Most people choose to reload their computers because of a viral infection, but even apparently healthy computers can benefit from having their operating systems reinstalled. It clears away unwanted data and often speeds up processing. Moreover, restoring a laptop may wipe away any unnoticed problems or viruses before they become an issue.
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Things You'll Need
- Windows CD or DVD
- Windows registration key
- External storage device or blank CDs/DVDs (optional)
Instructions
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1
Save all files (documents, pictures, music, videos) that you want to keep onto some form of external device, such as a CD, a DVD, or an external hard drive. This step is optional, but your files will not be easily retrievable (if they are retrievable at all) once your computer has been reloaded.
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2
Insert the Windows disc and restart your computer.
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3
Press any key when prompted to press any key to boot from CD. Wait for Windows to take inventory of your hard drive. This may take a few minutes.
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4
Note that you will be presented with a list of your hard drive's partitions. Delete them all by pressing "D" to delete and then "L" to confirm your choice.
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5
Press "Enter" when the only remaining choice is "Unpartitioned space." Windows will now begin to install. Don't touch any keys until your computer restarts.
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6
Enter your Windows registration key when prompted (the key is generally found somewhere on the computer itself, usually on the bottom). Enter it exactly as it is written on the tag. Click "Next."
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7
Enter the time and date when asked to do so, then be sure that you have the right time zone. Click "Next."
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8
Choose "Typical" and click "Next" or "Skip" if you are asked for network settings.
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9
Select the default choice and click "Next" if asked for modem settings.
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10
Enter the names of the accounts that will be on the computer when asked to do so. Click "Next" (or "Finish," depending on which you're given).
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11
Activate your copy of Windows when you arrive at the Desktop. Follow the onscreen instructions to activate it.
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Tips & Warnings
The order in which Steps 6 through 10 are presented may vary, depending on the version of Windows you are using.
Do not begin the installation process unless you are certain you have the registration key on hand and all the information you wish to keep saved elsewhere.
