I can't seem to do the clean reinstall because i can't do step 4 in the guide. The step where i shall do a recovery disc. I just get an error message saying "Error: The system cannot find the path specified. (0x80070003)" I've tried multiple times and the last time I got another error.
"The backup failed.
"Windows backup failed to create the shared protection point on the source volume (0x8078006B)
"Additional information:
"The specified object was not found. (0x80042308)"
The need for backup disks becomes much less important, even nearly nonexistent, when you do a Clean Reinstall and shed all of the corrupting bloatware loaded into that image. But you can always order them from your OEM Tech Support if needed. An alternative is also given to make a Win7 backup image in its stead. Backup Complete Computer - Create an Image Backup
Sorry I was being a bit vague there. It was when i tried to do the alternative, that i got the errors.
You can skip that step or use an alternative like https://www.sevenforums.com/software/43219-image-your-system-free-macrium.html or the free Acronis premium imaging app that comes with any WD or Seagate HD in the mix.
Another question: Where do I find the Wireless or Ethernet LAN (wired) driver when I have a custom-built computer? Or is that a step that i can skip aswell?
I'd keep both in my Downloads folder for as long as you have the PC. Find them on the device's Support Downloads webpage, making sure they match the exact make/model/version you have in Device Manager for each.
Okay so I've done the clean reinstall of windows. I've had two BSOD already. One because of ntoskrnl.exe and the other because of fltmgr.sys where the error on the last one is BAD_POOL_CALLER.
EDIT:
Also, can't seem to find my external hdd on where i backed up most of my stuff. I had it unplugged while I reinstalled windows, and at first I could find it. But then i got a BSOD while transferring stuff from it and now it's nowhere to be found..
Is it stable in Safe Mode?
Test your HD using the maker's HD Diagnostic extended CD scan. If WD doesnt have the ISO loaded still then you may need to slave the HD to another PC to run the Windows Long Scan or run bootable Data Lifeguard from a boot disk like Hirens or Ultimate Boot disk.
In addition to those diagnostics run a full Disk Check if necessary from Command Line as shown in the tutorial.
These tests will determine with certainty the HD condition.
It seems quite stable in safe mode, yes. I've done both of those tests and the wd disc scan still says "Test found bad sectors that may be repairable", and when I click repair I get the same message as before - "Error was detected while repairing bad sectors."
Also, I have to format my external hdd to be able to open it. But if I do that I'll lose all of my important stuff that is on it. Can I somehow save that before formatting, so that I don't lose it?
Try plugging the external into another PC to see if it's read. There's no reason it should not be read if you're not using the bad HD, and you didn't touch its data during the reinstall.
Once you plug it into another PC post back a screenshot of Disk Management - Post a Screen Capture Image
If you can't get Data Lifeguard bootable Extended CD scan to repair the HD then I would replace it.
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