Dell Windows Backup Media and Recovery Options

Dell proposes multiple options for recovering Windows operating system on your Dell PC.
Read the descriptions below to decide which recovery option to use.

Download Media Online

Use Dell OS Recovery Tool to download an image and create a USB flash drive that will install the factory version of Windows that was shipped on your device. Driver and software updates will be required after installation.

Use Dell SupportAssist OS recovery

Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery starts automatically if Windows will not startup. The recovery environment allows you to diagnose hardware issues, repair issues, back up files, and restore factory settings. You can start the recovery environment at any time.
Verify the list of systems on which Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery is supported.

Specific Solutions

Windows 10
Use Dell Factory Image Restore to restore factory settings, including drivers and applications. This option is for PCs that came with Windows 10. If you upgraded to Windows 10 from a previous version, use the option below.
Windows 10 Upgrades, Windows 8.1 or Windows 7
Use Dell Backup and Recovery to restore factory settings or back up your files from your computer. This option reinstalls the version of Windows that came with your PC. Windows 10-upgraded computers need the upgrade that is reinstalled.
File Backup
To back up your personal files using Windows, see the Microsoft Support tutorial for Windows 10 or Windows 8.1 and Windows 7.

Video

Our comprehensive videos offer step-by-step support and information to answer your questions. Videos are in English. Translated subtitles available for some languages. More videos can be found in our Video Library.