In this video we'll go over the procedure for restoring your Dell Windows 8 PC with the Dell USB recovery key. You will need a Dell Windows 8 PC, a Dell Windows 8 USB key, and an external USB storage device large enough to backup your data. Begin with the computer turned off and plugged in to a permanent power supply.
Next, insert the Dell USB key in to your computer. Turn on the computer, and tap 'F12'. From the boot manager, select the USB key. Give it a few minutes. Choose your language, then click "OK". Read the terms and conditions. Click "Accept", then click "Continue".
The recovery program has three stages: Smart Repair, Data/User Backup, and Image recovery which reinstalls Windows 8. Click "continue" and the program will check your hardware. Once complete, click "continue" and it will analyse system files. You will be notified if errors are found, otherwise click "Continue".
Now you can select the files you would like to recover. You can choose additional files outside of 'My Documents', if you click "More files" and review the list. Next, attach your USB storage device and click continue. The program will begin to backup your files. Depending on the size of your files, it may take a while.
The process is automated, and you can step away while it runs. After the files are backed up, the hard drive is erased and Windows begins installation. When the process is complete, you will be asked to remove the Dell USB recovery key and then click "continue". The computer will now restart.
Allow the computer to boot normally. Windows will begin to setup. During this process, your computer may restart. You may need to monitor the installation and answer prompts. The next step, the recovery program, will reinstall Dell software like "Dell Backup and Recovery".
Once on the Windows 8 desktop, reinsert the Dell USB recovery key. The program will check for it, and notify you when it's located. Click "continue". Restart the computer. Press 'F12' at the Dell logo, and select the USB key. The program will boot to the recovery program. Reconnect your backup device if it was removed.
Once detected, you will be notified. Click "Continue" The recovery program will begin to restore your files. Depending on the size of your files, it may take a while. Once complete, disconnect the USB recovery key and your storage device. Then click "restart". The computer will boot back in to Windows.
Remember, you will need to reinstall your drivers. If you need help with this, please contact us. There are many ways. You can reach out at facebook.com/dell, @dellcares on twitter, or visit our forums at community.dell.com
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