Sony VGN-SZ5VWN - Manual (Page 24)

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Erasing everything on your hard disk
This section describes how to erase your data on your hard disk. It is strongly
recommended to erase all the data on your hard disk before you dispose of your computer
or give it to others.
Erasing all of your data on your hard disk with Wipe
and Erase Data
The Wipe and Erase Data software enables you to wipe out your data on your hard disk.
The erased data cannot be restored.
You need recovery discs to use the Wipe and Erase Data software. Create the recovery discs if
you have not yet created. For instructions on how to create the recovery discs, see “To create
recovery discs” on page 4.
The erasing process automatically stops and your computer restarts if the process has not
completed within 71 hours. The process will resume after the computer restarts.
Be sure to connect and use the AC adapter to power your computer when using the Wipe and
Erase Data software.
1 Make backup copies of your valuable files.
Make a backup copy of your data using the Back Up Files wizard if you can start Windows.
Make a backup copy of your data with the Rescue Data software if you cannot start Windows.
You can launch the Rescue Data software with recovery discs.
2 Insert a recovery disc to the drive while the computer is on, turn off your computer, and
turn on the computer again.
The System Recovery Options window appears.
3 Select a keyboard layout and click Next.
4 Select an operating system and click Next.
5 Select VAIO Recovery Utility.
6 Click Wipe and Erase Data.
7 Follow the on-screen instructions.