Windows System Recovery and Internet Connectivity Configuration

System Recovery and Troubleshooting

When repairing an Operating System (OS), specifically Windows XP, there are two primary options available:

• Emergency Repair Disk (ERD): Known previously as DRE.
• Restore Points (RP): System backups performed automatically.

Windows XP Recovery Methods

The original Floppy-based Emergency Repair Disk action that existed in older versions of Windows was deleted in Windows XP. This change occurred because modern computers support booting from the CD-ROM drive. The ERD functionality was replaced by a mixed, recoverable method, often utilizing a diskette as a storage medium.

Restore Points: These are backups performed automatically at regular intervals. They allow you to recover a damaged system state by reverting to a previous, stable configuration.

Windows 7 System Retrieval

Similar to Windows XP, Windows 7 also allows users to create and utilize restore points. To access the system retrieval options, follow these steps:

1. Select Start.
2. Go to All Programs.
3. Navigate to Maintenance.
4. Select the Backup and Restoration Center.

Internet Connection Setup

Dial-Up Connection via Modem

This configuration applies when using a computer that is not part of a Local Area Network (LAN) and requires a modem for Internet connection. The modem may be an external serial (COM) device or an internal card connected to a PCI slot.

After installing the modem card, you must configure the connection using the operating system's networking tools.

Manual Configuration Steps (Windows XP/7)

In Windows XP, access My Network Places Properties and select Create New Connection. In Windows 7, select Set up a connection or network. Follow the wizard, indicating that you wish to connect through a modem.

The connection data must be configured manually using the details provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP), including the user name, password, and telephone number.

Wizard Steps:

1. Access Properties of My Network Places and select Create New Connection.
2. Select the dial-up option.
3. Confirm the connection is done through an analog modem and phone line (not ADSL).
4. Establish the telephone number of the node provided by the ISP.
5. Add a shortcut to the desktop.

Once the desktop icon is created, double-clicking it brings up the login screen where you enter the remaining ISP data. Clicking the Properties button allows access to advanced configuration options.

USB Router Setup

Configuration for a USB router is typically very simple. The USB device supports hot installation (plug-and-play). The system will usually recognize it automatically, though it may prompt you for drivers. After installation, introduce the identifying data provided by your ISP (similar to the modem setup).

RJ45 Ethernet Router Configuration

To connect via an RJ45 Ethernet router, you need a network adapter installed. Ensure the router and the adapter belong to the same network segment. You must configure the network adapter manually by indicating:

• An IP address in the same range as the router.
• The Subnet Mask used by the router.
• The DNS servers provided by the ISP.

Wireless (Wi-Fi) Ethernet Router

The configuration requirements are the same as those for the standard Ethernet router described above, but connectivity is established wirelessly. A compatible wireless network adapter must be installed.

LAN Network Sharing a Modem Connection

This setup involves multiple computers on a LAN sharing a single Internet connection via a modem. The required configuration includes:

• A modem installed and configured.
• A network adapter installed on the host machine.
• Internet connection shared through proxy software.

Automated Task Scheduling

Automating Periodic Tasks in Windows

In all Operating Systems (OS), and especially within Windows environments, it is possible to automate the execution of tasks. This is necessary when a user needs to perform periodic maintenance tasks, such as:

• System Backup
• Disk Cleanup
• File Copy Operations

Tasks are scheduled using specific programs, often provided by the OS itself (like the Windows Task Scheduler), which allow for precise programming of execution times and frequencies.