restore factory settings on dell 4600?
142024
Use the restore CD they gave you.  \n\nIf you have a friend that has the OS CD, you can do a fresh install using the CD key on your dell.
488030
Call Dell's consumer service.
434092
try calling DELL\nIf its still avail they will have it otherwise search for it on ebay
9922
Re-boot your comp and change to old settings
830874
simply do the "system restore"
871736
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/pcyc/removing.htm\n\nLinks to what you're asking about are at the bottom of the page.  Have fun!
17399
Check with Compaq for specific instructions.  But, you can usually do a repair install (of Windows 2000 or XP), and it won't delete all your applications and user settings.
543608
Go to programs > Accessories > System Tools > System Restore
431851
Same thing happened to me.  I am the only user on my computer and have administrator rights but i was having the same problem.  Eventualy i couldnt access any programs or install or uninstall anything and had to restore my computer back the the factory settings with the resrore disc.
811929
system restore to before the problem started.see if helps.if not might need to reinstall some .dll files
212330
If it's haging on the formatting, then likely the cause of that problem *and* your initial problem is hard drive failure. You'll need to get a new hard drive in order to get back up and running. \n\nNote: Those cds that come with your computer are keyed to that machine, and wont work on another. I'm not sure what they use to identify the machine, but changing the hard drive *might* make it think it's a different computer, and prevent you from reinstalling. But, unless you want to send it back to dell, it's what you'll need to do.\n\nEdit: Ahh, good, thanks pngarrett. Out of curiousity, do you know what they do use to identify the system? CPU id perhaps? Or does Dell not do that?
3630
The correct driver can be downloaded from Dell's website:\nhttp://support.dell.com/support/downloads/download.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=gen&releaseid=R33503&formatcnt=1&fileid=37736
101294
start here: \nhttp://support.dell.com/support/topics/global.aspx/support/software_reinstall/en/index?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs
1160228
Contact Dell...\n\nGOOD LUCK
66004
try this. if u need any more help just mail me at ruben_swing@dellmail.com
1081272
go to dell.com support and look for support on your particular laptop, and you will find how to enter the bios and change or delete it, if it is boot password, to start the laptop, you will have to call dell and see if they will help you unlock it, it is a theft deterrent
378351
If you purchased your laptop directly from someone like Dell or IBM, then it should have come with a "recovery disc" or something to that affect.  Insert the disc and it should walk you through it.  If you have any tough questions, call the manufacturer.  This will restore it to an "out-of-the-box" laptop.\n\nHOWEVER... the way you phrased your question, and the fact that you're asking it here, it sounds like it won't be that easy.  I would say:\n1. Burn anything you want to save - you will loose everything!\n2. Find a copy of Windows (make sure you have a CD-key BEFORE you start) and broadband access.\n3. Either run the CD or boot to it and begin formatting your hard drive.\n4. Create 2 patitions on your hard drive - one for windows and the other for documents, music, games...\n5. After install, check Microsoft's website for updates.  You may have to do this 3 or 4 times.\n6. Reinstall all other programs and software.\n\nThis is the "Cliff Notes" version.  Check the website below if you have any questions.