Getting Started 7
What’s Next?
Backing up
Recovery after a system failure is as complete as your most current backup. You should 
create your initial backup immediately after software setup. As you add new software and 
data files, you should continue to back up your system on a regular basis to maintain a 
reasonably current backup.
Use the Backup and Restore Center to create a backup. Click Start, click All Programs, 
click Maintenance, and then click Backup and Restore Center. Follow the on-screen 
instructions to back up your entire computer (select models only) or your files.
Recovering
In case of system failure, use the f11 recovery tool to recover your original hard drive image.
✎
The image includes the Windows operating system and software programs installed at 
the factory.
Ä
CAUTION
:
 Using f11 completely erases hard drive contents and reformats the hard 
drive. All files you have created and any software installed on the computer are 
permanently removed. The f11 recovery tool reinstalls the operating system and HP 
programs and drivers that were installed at the factory. 
Software, drivers, and updates
 
not installed at the factory must be reinstalled. Personal files must be restored from a 
backup.
1. If possible, back up all personal files.
2. If possible, check for the presence of the HP Recovery partition. To find the partition, 
click Start, and then click Computer.
✎
If the HP Recovery partition is not listed, you must recover your operating system 
and programs using the Windows Vista Operating System DVD and the Driver 
Recovery disc. To purchase these discs, contact technical support. Refer to the 
“Contacting technical support” section in the back of this guide.
3. If the HP Recovery partition is listed, restart the computer, and then press esc while the 
“Press the ESC key for Startup Menu” message is displayed at the bottom of the screen.
4. Press f11 while the “Press <F11> for recovery” message is displayed on the screen.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions.
✎
Windows provides additional recovery tools through the operating system. For 
additional information, go to Help and Support.
✎
If you are unable to boot (start up) your computer, you must purchase a Windows Vista 
Operating System DVD to reboot the computer and repair the operating system. For 
additional information, contact technical support. Refer to the “Contacting technical 
support” section in the back of this guide.