Home surgery on the computer

[auntiemeesh]

My poor little computer is getting more and more tired and slow as the days pass. I have been unable to find and fix the problems plaguing it. Clicking on links frequently causes either a freeze or IE to shut down, it takes forever to open any program, etc.

I have run scans and don't seem to have a virus, just lots of adware/spyware that I can't seem to get rid of. So I'm taking a drastic step. I'm reinstalling my Windows XP. I have never done this before and will carefully read the instruction manual before doing anything, but I've been told I don't have to clear anything out first, just pop the CD in and click install.

I've spent the evening saving files (better remember to get my address book copied - I always forget that) and I'm ready to get started on the serious stuff. Cross your fingers, everybody, and hope that I don't blow my computer up or lose any crucial stuff.

Comments

[grey-wonderer.livejournal.com]

I had to do this several times with my other computer and usually did what was called a quick restore. It put everything back like it was when I first got the computer and I didn't lose too many files. Some people do the complete wipe clean and reinstall but I never had the nerve. I wish you luck and I think you are very smart to back up your stuff before doing this. Good luck!

[auntiemeesh.livejournal.com]

I looked at doing a system restore, but the computer would only let me go back as far as June for the restore. I don't know how to do a quick restore that takes it back to the state it was when I first got the computer.

[grey-wonderer.livejournal.com]

Mine came with a set of four CDs that I used for this. You put the first one in and it gave the the choice from there. Itf you did quick restore you only used three of the disks. If you wiped it clean and did the whole thing again you used four. Technology for me, the simple-minded. LOL

[budgielover.livejournal.com]

I'm sorry you've been having such a time with your computer. I had to re-install XP a few months ago, and learned one really important thing. Not only do you need to back up your address book, you also need to either back up (which I didn't do) your favorites list or write them all down. It is agonizing to try to recreate that...

Best of luck to you.

[auntiemeesh.livejournal.com]

I apparently have an electronic curse hanging over my head. My roommate never has problems with her computer, which she got nearly at the same time as me.

Thanks for the tip about the favorites list, which I hadn't thought about.

[lil-banik-slave.livejournal.com]

*crosses fingers*