Driver_irql_not_less_or_equal (iastor.sys)

And, of course (could it be any other way?) I have no option for Dell Factory Image Restore as per your linkRestoring Your Computer´s Software to the Factory Settings | Dell

boweasel said:

I don't know if this sounds naive or not, but doing a fresh install... won't I simply be loading the very same Intel driver that (apparently) caused the BSOD in the first place?

The driver isn't missing or your computer wouldn't start. The problem may be boot sector corruption for which wiping the HD to clean reinstall is the solution.

A Clean Reinstall is always the ultimate solution to nagging problems and creeping corruption, although with drive imaging once you get the purrfect reinstall you only need to save a backup image and you don't have to reinstall again.

To get the purrfect reinstall, adopt the attitude that this is a learning experience which will greatly enhance your knowledge about your computer and give you some mastery over it. Then follow the steps suggested to re-install windows 7

Re-install went purrfectly (to coin a phrase), and to 500 GB hard drive offered enough space to create an old-windows folder, where all the documents, pictures, music and programs reside.

Silly question, but I don't know how to get say Microsoft Office onto the newly reinstalled OS. I have the folders on Windows (old), but is that really useless, and do I simply need to use the disk to reinstall the product?

Yes all programs must be reinstalled. You can import any Outlook settings and mail from within the mail program by browsing to the windows.old folder.