Appendix A: Reinstalling Windows Vista

In the vast majority of instances a Windows Vista system that's been riddled by viruses and mal-ware can be cleaned up and then re-secured using the tools and techniques outlined in this book. In the case of a severe infestation, however, you may be left with little choice but to reinstall Windows Vista and start from scratch. Although reinstalling Windows Vista is often considered to be an extreme measure, it's all a matter of perspective - would you rather spend three hours desperately trying to reclaim your existing system (with no guarantees of success), or spend that same time reinstalling your operating system, programs, and then restoring your personal files? The first option may end up being a more interesting journey, but the second gets rid of outstanding issues for good and gives you a chance to start all over again with a clean and (this time) properly secured system.

This appendix walks you through the tasks involved with reinstalling a Windows Vista system from scratch. The step-by-step instructions outline the standard Windows Vista installation process, but important pre-and post-installation tasks are also outlined for reference purposes.

Pre-Installation Tasks

If you jump straight into the process of reinstalling Windows Vista without giving anything else a thought, you'll almost certainly be sorry. When you reinstall Windows Vista from scratch, the end result is a sparkling, like-new system - one in which all of your installed programs and personal files are missing, however. Therefore, it's critically important that you consider the points listed in this section. If you don't, you're bound to lose access to important documents, images, e-mail messages, and even encrypted files along the way.

Prior to performing a clean installation of Windows Vista, complete the following tasks:

• Back up all personal files to another computer, external hard drive, or writeable CD or DVD. In most cases, include the contents of your My Documents folder, and other folders you may have used to store documents, images, videos, music files, e-mail messages, address books, and so forth. If multiple users share access to the computer, ensure that their files are backed up as well. For details on backing up personal files see the article "Backup and You" at http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,1883696,00.asp.

• Back up any program installation files or hardware drivers that you will require after Windows Vista is reinstalled.

• Back up all of your personal certificates (such as those used by EFS or encryption programs), including private keys. If you fail to back up these certificates and private keys, you won't be able to open existing encrypted files or e-mail messages.

• Make note of serial numbers for installed programs if you don't have them written down already.

• Make note of information such as ISP connection details (phone numbers, network settings, and so on) and any other miscellaneous pieces of information that you might require after the Windows Vista installation process is complete.

• Gather all necessary CD and DVD discs that you'll require during the installation process before you get started.