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    Windows backup/restore questions

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by Mobius 1, Sep 1, 2012.

  1. Mobius 1

    Mobius 1 Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    I guess it's time to reinstall Win7 because I messed up the nvidia install, now no drivers/install method/tweak/registry would install and no matter what I try, the output is still the same.

    In short, I f104ed up my windows and now it wouldn't install any nvidia drivers unless I use the "have disk" method and use a modified INF (installs, but no control panel)


    I'm using windows backup and restore before I do this, but does Windows backup/restore create an exact system copy (clone) or just your files (browser history (esp. firefox), programs (games) and save for games (Origin/Steam, Skyrim)



    I want the 2nd option, I would like to be able to back all my stuff (file/games/windows update/browser addon-history-settings) up but none of the system files or driver. Is there any way to do this?
     
    Mobius 1, Sep 1, 2012
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  2. Maro12

    Maro12 Notebook Consultant

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    Windows backup/restore only brings your system to a time where it was functioning well. All the files you have saved, or downloaded will be intact and it only makes changes in the Windows. I guess you need the original software of your nvidia that you can download at the manufactures site and install it once again after restoring the Windows.
    For a fresh install you need to make a copy of your Windows by recovery management that the manufacture has provided, it is already installed on your laptop. Its wise to have a copy of that in case something goes terribly wrong with Windows.
     
    Maro12, Sep 1, 2012
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  3. Mobius 1

    Mobius 1 Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    Oh, so it reverts all the driver and system files to an earlier setting (working) but it does not mess with any of your present files?


    I actually have the DVD of my Win7 x64 since I bought the N43 without an OS.

    I cannot install drivers whether it's an OEM, nvidia official, or a modded Lv2GO. I already tried all methods that I know.

    So far I have found a way for firefox (using mozbackup) and a save directory of skyrim (documents --> my games), however I don't know if copying the whole skyrim + skyrim save folder can cause issues (crash/activation?)
     
    Mobius 1, Sep 1, 2012
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  4. Maro12

    Maro12 Notebook Consultant

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    Yes your files will remain as it is, it only adjusts the Windows settings so it runs as it used to in that certain time. Here is a link to Microsoft explaining what a restore does: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/products/features/system-restore

    I have done the restore several times but I am not sure whether it reset the other hardwares drivers or not.
    Can you uninstall and reinstall nvidia driver?
    Have you done any changes to the Windows registry?
     
    Maro12, Sep 2, 2012
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