Q: I want to restore my PC back to how it was when I first received it. Does that hard disk have to be formatted for this?
John Bryant

A: Most computers are supplied with a special CD that will return the computer to the state in which it left the factory. If so, it will have been included with the manual and any other documentation.

It is important to remember that this process completely wipes the hard disk along with any files or work you may have created since getting the computer. This will happen even if you have divided up the hard disk into several partitions. These files should be compied onto the CD, DVD or external hard disk.

Other computers are supplied with the restore files already on the hard disk in a special hidden partition. If this is the case, there will be a message including the correct key to press to restore the computer back to the factory settings.