How to Return a Dell Precision to Factory Default

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Dell's Precision line of workstation computers were designed with high-performance graphical technology for use by engineers, graphic designers and other users who require powerful visual performance. Models come in both laptop and desktop varieties, and include configuration options for a wide variety of user needs. The Dell Backup and Recovery Manager is pre-installed in all Precision systems, and helps users return a Precision system to its factory default state. Perform this operation if the system experiences an unrecoverable crash, becomes infected by a virus or other malicious program, or simply to clean out the hard drive for improved performance.

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Step 1

Save any and all critical personal information, application data and saved documents to an external hard drive or memory card. Returning the system to the factory defaults erases all information on the hard drive and recovers only the applications that came with the system. Other information will be permanently lost unless backed up elsewhere. Windows comes with a built-in backup/restore feature for safeguarding information, or you can use Dell's Backup and Recovery Manager to perform this step.

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Step 2

Type "Dell Backup and Recovery Manager" into the Start menu search bar and press "Enter" to open the recovery software. To recover a malfunctioning system that cannot boot, open the software by pressing "F8" during startup. Use the arrow keys to highlight "Repair Your Computer" and press "Enter." Select "Dell Backup and Recovery Manager" from the list.

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Step 3

Click the "System Restore" button in the left frame. Click the drop-down menu and select "Dell Factory Image" from the list. If you have previously created other backup images, they may appear in the list as well. The factory image stores on the recovery partition of the hard drive, and won't be available if you've removed or changed the partition. Click "Next."

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Step 4

Check the confirmation box and click "Start." After making the selection, you cannot prevent or stop the operation from erasing the hard drive and making the recovery. Wait for the process to end, and click "Finish" on the completion screen.

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