If you’re the proud owner of a Windows 7 installation DVD, have a 25-character product key and an installed bootable Windows 7, you have all you need to repair Windows without wiping out your installed programs, personal settings and ‘Irreplaceable Stuff’.

If you’re the proud owner of a Windows 7 installation DVD, have a 25-character product key and an installed bootable Windows 7, you have all you need to repair Windows without wiping out your installed programs, personal settings and ‘Irreplaceable Stuff’.

However, know that repairing Windows 7 should be considered only after you’re sure the dings it’s experiencing can not be repaired by:

1.Executing a System File Checker.
* Click Start, All Programs, Accessories.
* Right click on ‘Command Prompt’ and click ‘Run as administrator’.
* If you’re prompted for an administrator password or for a confirmation, type the password or click ‘Allow’.
* Type sfc /scannow. Note: there’s a space between sfc and the ‘/’.
* Press Enter.

The scan may take a few minutes. All your protected system files will be scanned and if Microsoft discovers an incorrect version, corrected. If it cannot replace or repair a file(s) the file(s) will be listed in a log. For additional information and how to access the log go to: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929833

Note: I recommend performing a periodic ‘just in case’ Windows 7 or Vista system file check.

2. Going to: http://support.microsoft.com/fixit/.
* At the Fix it Solution Center you can select a problem area e.g., Windows, Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player, Entertainment, Office or Other.
Or
* Select from a list of ‘What are you trying to do’?

You might be pleasantly surprised at the options and recommendations the Fix it Solution Center offers.

If your System File Checker, Mr. Fix it or your technician cannot come up with a solution for your troubled Windows system or you just want to restore Windows to its trouble free, perky self, perhaps it’s time to use your Windows installation DVD to repair your system.

But first:
1. Keep in mind Murphy’s Law: ‘Anything that can go wrong will go wrong’. Always’s backup all your ‘Irreplaceable Stuff’ before doing anything that involves configuring your Windows system..
2. Check your Windows Installation DVD. If you have installed Service Pack 1, does your installation DVD include Service Pack 1? If not you’ll either have to delete Service Pack 1 and reinstall it after repairing Windows or borrow a DVD with service pack 1.

Note: It’s okay to borrow an installation DVD if you’re currently running a genuine copy of Windows 7 and a have a valid serial number.

3. Between now and next week’s Good Boot decide whether or not you really want to repair your Windows 7.

If you do, we’ll do it!

Here’s wishing you a Good Boot.