HP Classmate Notebook PC - Manual (Page 18)

Using Windows Refresh for quick and easy recovery
When your computer is not working properly and you need to regain system stability, the Windows
Refresh option allows you to start fresh and keep what is important to you.
IMPORTANT: Refresh removes any applications that were not originally installed on the system at
the factory. Any Windows 8 apps that came preinstalled on your computer and any that were
purchased from the Windows Store will be saved.
NOTE: During Refresh, a list of removed traditional applications will be saved so that you have a
quick way to see what you might need to reinstall. See Help and Support for instructions on
reinstalling traditional applications. From the Start screen, type help, and then select Help and
Support.
NOTE: You may be prompted for your permission or password when using Refresh. See Help and
Support for more information. From the Start screen, type help, and then select Help and Support.
To start Refresh:
1. On the Start screen, type recover, and then select Refresh your PC without affecting your files.
2. Select Get started, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
Removing everything and reinstalling Windows
Sometimes you want to perform detailed reformatting of your computer, or you want to remove
personal information before you give away or recycle your computer. The process described in this
section provides a speedy, simple way to return the computer to its original state. This option
removes all personal data, apps, and settings from your computer, and reinstalls Windows.
IMPORTANT: This option does not provide backups of your information. Before using this option,
back up any personal information you wish to retain.
You can initiate this option from the Start screen:
1. On the Start screen, type recover, and then select Remove everything and reinstall Windows.
2. Select Get started, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
Backing up data using File History
Recovery after a system failure is only as good as your most recent backup.
As you add photos, video, music, and other personal files, create a backup of your personal
information. Windows File History can be set to regularly and automatically back up files from
libraries, desktop, contacts, and favorites. If files are accidentally deleted from the hard drive and they
can no longer be restored from the Recycle Bin, or if files become corrupted, you can restore the files
that you backed up using File History. Restoring files is also useful if you ever choose to reset the
computer by reinstalling Windows.
File History is not enabled by default, so you must turn it on as follows:
NOTE: To enable File History and backup, you must connect using an optional external USB optical
drive or an optional external hard drive.
▲ On the Start screen, type file history, select File History settings, and then follow the on-
screen instructions.
12 Chapter 6 Backing up, restoring, and recovering