Tech Center Details
Format/Clean Install of your Operating System
If you are considering formatting your computer due to virus infections, pop-ups/spyware, or other malicious software please be aware of the following items:
- When formatting a hard drive, or doing a full install, all files are deleted off the computer and the operating system is re-installed. Formatting will delete
any viruses that may be infecting the system, but it will also delete all programs and settings. In order to do a fresh install, you will want to back
up all important data like homework and information for coursework. The Resnet Tech Center can assist with data backup. Resnet is only able to back
up documents, pictures, and other personal files. By policy Resnet is unable to backup movies, music, pornographic material or anything else that may
be in violation of the Computer Code of Conduct, or state and federal law.
- A repair install of Windows installs a new copy of the operating system over the original installation. By doing a "repair install", both your personal settings and your documents will remain intact. This is useful when you have corrupt Windows files. However, software that registeres with Windows may not work after a repair install.
- If you employ resnet to assist in helping you with a full or repair install you will need to provide genuine software with a valid CD-key.
- After you have formatted your computer, do not immediately plug back into the network. Formatting the machine has deleted the virus
scanning software and the protection it affords. Install virus-scanning software before ever plugging into any network. ITS provides a free copy of
McAfee Virus Scan to all students. It is available here.
- Once you have installed Virus Scan, call the Resnet Office at 475-2600 and ask to be quarantined because you are reformatting your
machine. When quarantined, you may then plug into the network, update your virus scanning software, and get the necessary Windows Updates that are
needed after a format. This is important due to the speed at which a machine can be compromised by worms/viruses on a network of this size, the Quarantine
system prevents malicious traffic to/from your computer during this transition.
- After getting the necessary updates your computer should be automatically enabled. If you reboot your computer after 30 minutes and you are still not able to connect to the internet, call the Resnet Office and we will reactivate your connection on the network.
