Gaming Re-installing vista?

[Primenay13]

My computer is completely jacked up, so I am going to re-install vista with the cd that came with my computer. My question is, will this delete my usernames and documents?

 

[CrimsoniteX]

Depends. If you pop the disc in, and select repair install, it won't. However if you do a clean install it will. If your computer is completely jacked up your best bet is to just backup your files, wipe the drive completely, and do a clean install. You will be amazed at how fast a fresh install can run

 

[Primenay13]

Oh, well I dont care about files, but I do care about the users. If it wont save those then ill do a repair

 

[playallday]

Backup your files with a Linux Live CD. Don't want any old viruses passing on to your new install.

 

[Primenay13]

Where can I get a linux live cd? I have knoppix, which is linux on a cd. How can I backup my files and will it back up the users too? Also, I just tried to repair, but it said I have media devices connected but never have had anything connected.

 

[playallday]

I'd just use Ubuntu as it's SUPER easy to use for n00bs (not that I'm saying you are but...).

 

[Primenay13]

I'd just use Ubuntu as it's SUPER easy to use for n00bs (not that I'm saying you are but...).

Its ok I am a noob. But how do I use it to backup. Is there a program? I have it installed.
My big question is though, Will it save the users for vista or just files. I dont care about the files but I DO care about the users.

(see this proves Im a noob)

 

[playallday]

1. Down Ubuntu's ISO.
2. Burn Ubuntu ISO to a DVD with ImgBurn or whatever other ISO burning software you use.
3. Put the DVD in the disk drive and reboot.
4. Let it start up for a while.
5. Once it's all started up you can go look at your hard drive as if you were on Windows.
6. Copy the files (NOT PROGRAMS!!!) you want on to a USB stick or something.
7. Reinstall your OS.
8. Install your programs.
9. Copy over your files.
10. Be happy.

 

[Primenay13]

Ok, Thanks. I got it running and im saving all my files onto my external hard drive.

 

[CrimsoniteX]

I'd just use Ubuntu as it's SUPER easy to use for n00bs (not that I'm saying you are but...).

Its ok I am a noob. But how do I use it to backup. Is there a program? I have it installed.
My big question is though, Will it save the users for vista or just files. I dont care about the files but I DO care about the users.

(see this proves Im a noob)

I don't quite understand what you mean... if you don't care about the files, but care about the users, why don't you just set up the users again after you reinstall the OS?

 

[DarkCamui]

Why re-install Vista when you can download and install Windows 7 Ultimate lol.

 

[playallday]

Yeah, I would also think about getting Windows 7 since your going to delete everything anyways.

 

[nitrostemp]

or a better solution, set up a pc to run windows server 08, use windows deployment to make a copy of build of your computer with apps and users, so when it screws up all you ever have to do is boot the server, get the screwed pc to boot from network and never have to think about reinstalling apps ever again

 

[playallday]

or a better solution, set up a pc to run windows server 08, use windows deployment to make a copy of build of your computer with apps and users, so when it screws up all you ever have to do is boot the server, get the screwed pc to boot from network and never have to think about reinstalling apps ever again

That also would be great for backing up viruses!

 

[Myidentityisasec]

Yeah, I would also think about getting Windows 7 since your going to delete everything anyways.

I agree. I have the beta build 7100 and I LOVE it. It's such an update from win vista

 

[Primenay13]

Thanks guys, since this thread I have gotton Win7 and its GREAT!