Re: What to save before reformatting

I agree with the previous post. I would run Disk Cleanup, deleting all Temp
files, cookies, browser history, and offline content.
I would then clean out Outlook Express, clearing out the Sent Items and
Deleted Items folders, and then compacting the rest.
I would then sort thru the My Documents folder. If you haven't used it in 6
months, move it or delete it.
I would then do a defrag.
I would then run Prime 95 and MemTest(google for them), and hard drive
diagnostics- check hard drive mftr site- to rule out dying hardware.
Then I'd scan for viruses and malware.

If you still decide to reformat, your restore disk will erase all programs,
patches, and updates. Were I you, I'd buy Acronis True Image software, and
image the hard disk
That way, you can use the System Restore disk, and the Acronis CD's to
restore the drive back to it's previous state without downloading a thing.
Saving you hours of time.

"MaryL" <stancole1@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:YqB_g.6916$fl.1855@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
I plan to reformat my hard disk. I have a Compaq computer that has been
getting slower and slower, and I frequently have problems with freezes when
I simply click on a link in newsgroups or Internet programs. I have tried
everything I know to do, but I think the time has come to "bite the bullet"
and reformat.

I have a couple of questions that I hope someone can help with:
(1) I have the original Compaq Restore Plus disks that came with the
computer. The tiny manual with them only refers to a complete format.
Does anyone know if there is a way to do a "partial restore" where my
exisiting programs would not be lost?
(2) In case I really do have to reinstall everything, how/what should I
backup so I can return Windows and newsgroups to their present settings --
newsgroups with threads that have been marked to follow, etc.?

I already have good backups of all data on my computer. I rotate the
process, so I always have 4 different sets (in case of a total disaster).
I also have all of the original program disks -- everything on my computer
is registered; no piracy. So, I can restore everything if necessary, but
it will take many hours (or days). Any tips will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
MaryL




.

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