Does factory HD image destroy personal data?

I'm thinking of restoring my Dell factory image, this being easier than re-installing Windows. I just want to sort of refresh my OS, and re-customize it.

But am I correct in thinking that I first need to back up my personal data?
It would be much nicer if I didn't have to, because so far my flash drive transfers have been unsuccessful due to corrupted files or things of that nature

Thanks in advance for your answers!

 

Burn a DVD of your stuff. Take the Windows Reinstall disc you got and reformat the computer.


Done.

 

Yes, it will erase all of your information on the computer
I assume you want to just reinstall windows and not reformat?

 

You could also try the Repair option in Windows instead of new install.. That why your personal stuff will still be there..

 

backup first no matter what option you use.

 

that's right!!!!!!!

but a fresh/clean install is always nice.......

and dells don't have much bloatware in the image

 

Just use the install disc, it has no bloatware at all.

 

I suggest the install disc. just do a fresh install and then put the dell drivers disc in and load the system drivers. i just did it with one of my laptops and it works fine. only driver i needed was the graphics driver. i downloaded an updated touchpad driver for kicks. but thats definitely easier than having to de-bloat Vista again.

 

The touchpad driver allows for scrolling. Not too much else, iirc.

 

the touchapd driver allows for programmable "touch zones" that the default driver doesn't support. such as programming the top left hand corner of the touchpad to double click when tapped, or any other command you want.