How do I Make a copy of the factory settings. Windows Backup Discuss How do I Make a copy of the factory settings. in the Vista Features forums; I just bought a new laptop and it has windows vista I hate that you don't get the disks with the computer any more. How do I make a ...

[bobbiebmech]

I just bought a new laptop and it has windows vista I hate that you don't get the disks with the computer any more. How do I make a copy of what is loaded in case of problems? I have Vista home preimum

[felix8406]

I must agree; it's not right for companies not to offer a DVD just in case. However, you should be able to make a DVD from the recovery portion; instructions should be included on the manual or from the manufacturer's website. Keep in mind that a recovery DVD will make your PC just as it was when you first turned it on. So if you installed additional software or created some documents; the recovery partition won't help you to recover them. Make sure you have System Restore turned on.

I wanted to add something that may work or not. I have not tried it with Vista, but have worked with XP. If you can burn a copy of a Vista DVD, for example from a friend, you should be able to use your product ID to install Vista using that burned copy. It will be legit as long as you install it on the same laptop using your original product ID.

[Znod]

I'd take the easy path: Acronis True Image and a backup external USB, firewire, or eSata drive. Also, I have Dell EPS laptop--that originally came sans disks. I called EPS service, and they sent me all disks. Maybe Dell would have done the same even if I hadn't had an EPS. Bottom line: call your manufacturer and ask--besides doing Acronis/external drive. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. There is nothing like a pristine restorable backup of your system made via a program like Acronis (the best) with at least the bulk of your installed software on it. Trust me on this one!!!