FAQ Focus: What is system re-imaging?

System re-imaging, also known as system reinstallation or system restoration, refers to the process of restoring a computer or device to its original factory settings or a previously saved state. It involves wiping out the existing operating system and all data on the system’s storage, and then reinstalling a fresh copy of the operating system.

System reimaging is typically performed when a computer is experiencing severe issues such as software corruption, malware infections, or performance degradation that cannot be resolved through other troubleshooting methods. By reinstalling the operating system, all software and system files are replaced with clean copies, effectively eliminating any problems that may have existed.

The process of system re-imaging involves the following steps:

Backup: Before proceeding with reimaging, it’s essential to back up any important data or files to an external storage device or cloud service. Re-imaging erases all data on the system drive, so it’s crucial to have a copy of your important files.

Reinstallation media: Obtain the installation media or recovery disc for the operating system you wish to install. This may include a DVD, USB flash drive, or a recovery partition on the computer itself.

Booting from installation media: Restart the computer and boot from the installation media. This typically requires changing the boot order in the computer’s BIOS or UEFI settings to prioritise the installation media.

Reinstalling the operating system: Follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall the operating system. This may involve formatting the system drive, selecting installation options, and entering license keys or activation information.

Driver and software installation: After the operating system is installed, you’ll need to install device drivers for the computer’s hardware components to ensure proper functionality. Additionally, reinstall any necessary software applications and configure system settings according to your preferences.

Data restoration: Once the system is up and running with the fresh operating system and required software, you can restore your backed-up files and data from the external storage device or cloud service.

It’s worth noting that system reimaging is a drastic measure and should be approached with caution. It permanently erases all data on the system drive, so it’s crucial to have a backup of your important files beforehand. Additionally, system reimaging should be performed by users who are familiar with the process or under the guidance of a knowledgeable technician.

To gain a deeper understanding of system re-imaging and how it can optimise your organisation’s IT infrastructure, click here to contact the S2S Group Support Team.