DataSafe Restore

Order Dell Recovery Disks

It’s possible to order Dell recovery disks if you do not have them. We get questions all the time regarding reinstalling the Operating System on a Dell computer. Usually a user will have lost their recovery disks, or worse, never created them using the recovery disks creation wizard. Dell now allows users to order a set of recovery disks to perform a system restore of their computer. Users can only do this once, so if you need a set of disks shipped to you from Dell, be sure you keep them in a safe place, as this is the only time you will be able to send away for them.

Before You Order Dell Recovery Disks

There are a couple of things you’ll need to do before you order Dell recovery disksdepending on the age of your computer. If you get the recovery disks, you might want to go to the Dell Drivers and Downloads page to make sure you have the very latest drivers for your computer, as the recovery disks you get might not contain the latest updates.

Where To Order Dell Recovery Disks

To order Dell recovery disks you’ll need to have your service tag number (located on the back of your computer) ready and proceed to the Dell Recovery Disk order page and fill out the request form.

Dell DataSafe Restore

There are several system recovery options for Dell computers and the most common is using the Dell DataSafe Restore option. Newer Dell computers, such as the Dell Inspiron 580, will have the DataSafe Local Backup Option in addition to the the tradition method of restoring from an image located in a system recovery disk. Use the following methods to create recovery media and restore it in the event your Dell PC no longer boots.

Create Media For Dell DataSafe Restore

You can create recovery media using the DataSafe Local Backup utility. You can use either DVDs or a USB stick with 8GB or more of space to create your Dell DataSafe Restore media. The system recovery media can be used to restore your Dell to the condition it was on a previous date without having to worry about the loss of data. To create the System Recovery media, turn on the computer and let it boot up. Insert the blank DVD (cannot be a re-writable disk) or USB stick and then go to Start>Programs>Dell DataSafe Local Backup and then click the Create Recovery Mediaoption.

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the creation of the Dell DataSafe Restore media. Once done, store the media in a safe place for future use.

Dell DataSafe Restore Or System Restore

You have several options to get your Dell back up and running again. Try the following in order, as they are organized as easiest to hardest:

System Restore – A system restore is a feature built into Windows that allows you to go back to a previous state in the event a system file or hardware driver has been damaged. To perform a System Restore, go to Start>Programs>Accessories>System Tools>System Restore.

Click through the restore options and go back to a date when you know the computer was working properly. Your personal data should be safe using this method.

Dell DataSafe Local Backup – You can use this method if the System Restore does not work properly. You will need the USB key or DVD you created from the instructions above. Restart the computer. When you see the Dell logo, tap the F8 key until you access the Advanced Boot Options. Select Repair Your Computer from the list. Next, select Dell DataSafe Restore and Emergency Backup from the System recovery Options and follow the onscreen instructions to complete the recovery process.

System Recovery Media – Use this method to perform a System Recovery in the event you cannot boot into Windows or if you have replaced your hard drive. To use the System Recovery Media you created above, put the USB stick or DVD into the computer and restart the machine. As the machine begins to boot, tap the F12. Select the boot device (either the USB or DVD) and then follow the instructions to perform recovery using the media you created.

Dell Factory Image Restore – This final method will destroy any data or programs you have added since you bought the computer. If you are still able to backup, backup any important photos, documents or other data before attempting this process. When ready, reboot and tap F8 until you see the Advanced Boot Options.

Select Repair Your Computer.

Select Dell Factory Image Restore. The image resides on a separate partition of your Dell’s hard drive. When the factory image restore has completed, your Dell will be the same as it was when you brought it home.

As you can see there are several different recovery options for your Dell; some are easy, some are drastic. Choose the one that is best for you. Be sure to create the recovery media as soon as you can and always perform routine backups of your important data. If you have questions about Dell DataSafe Restore or other recovery options, please refer to our other