Restore, format, or just cleanup?

April 2002

This is a question that has come up many times in recent months. First, let's talk about what these terms mean. 

Restore.

Many new computer systems come with a "restore" CD, or set of CDs.These replace what used to be supplied in years past - original CDs for each software package included on a new system. For example, if you bought a system with Windows95, Microsoft Works, and the Encyclopedia Britannica already installed, you would also receive the original installation CD's for each of these programs. Newer systems only include the restore CD, from which all of these programs can be reinstalled. The restore CD is also supposed to include all the necessary drivers for that particular system - modem, video, sound, etc. The idea behind the restore CD is that any user, no matter how inexperienced, will be able to insert the CD, follow the instructions, and return the system to the original factory settings, just like it was when they first purchased it.

Format.

Before the days of the restore CD, if you wanted to completely erase everything on your computer and start all over, you would first format your hard drive. This erases everything and prepares the hard drive for all new software, including a new installation of the OS (operating system), such as Windows98. This requires a greater level of expertise than simply running a restore CD.

Cleanup.

Cleaning up the system involves deleting any unnecessary files, uninstalling unused programs, and checking the registry for obsolete entries. Much of this can be handled by the less experienced user, with a some gentle guidance - except the registry of course, which should always be left to those who fully understand how the registry impacts the entire system.

So which is best?

The restore method is the simplest - sometimes! Unfortunately, in real world application, I've seen far too many Restore CD's that did not include enough of the drivers to fully restore the system back to the condition it was in when you first brought it home from the store. Often these missing drivers must be found manually, and then "prodded" to make them work correctly. In addition, with a restore, you may lose the ability to customize your installation. Some Retore CDs will give you a small amount of flexibility, but for the most part,you basically have to go with what they originally offered, no less.

Manually formatting and reinstalling the OS of your choice, along with the software of your choice is generally the best method for getting the greatest level of performance from your system. The drawback here is that if you want some of the additional software that is included on the restore CD, you may or may not be able to reinstall just that option. Each situation is different.

Formatting requires a fair amount of expertise, and, more importantly, a great deal of prep work to ensure that everything is done correctly. Remember, once you format the hard drive, everything is gone. Sure, you may not have any files on the system that you want, but if you do not know the exact specs of your system - such as the precise name of the modem, video card, etc., then you may have problems getting the system to recognize them later. This information should all be gathered prior to formatting. This is definitely not something that I recommend the average user do. It is, however, the best method for regaining "total" control over your system - or as close as one can ever get to that point!

Cleaning up your system is something that everyone should do at least once a year. Even if you aren't very experienced with your computer, there are some simple tasks that you can learn which will help your computer to run better, free up valuable hard drive space, and even free up system resources. This is usually the first thing I recommend doing whenever I work on a system for the first time, and I definitely urge people to pursue this course of action prior to considering a restore or a format. Both of these latter options require an extensive amount of time, leaving you without a computer during that time, which can be anywhere from several hours to several days. Far better to do some cleanup, which you can squeeze in here and there between other tasks!

In the coming weeks I'll be discussing more of the details of cleaning up your system, to help you learn this valuable skill. As always, feel free to write me if you have any questions.

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