Clean install on new machine

[defense]

I purchased a new computer with Windows 7 Professional 64 bit. I read that it's recommended re-installs the operating system after receiving a new computer from the factory. Is this something I should do? What's the reasons/benefits for doing this?

 

[Ztruker]

The rational behind this idea is to get an install that does not contain all the bloatware/foistware/garbageware/crapware many large box manufacturers preload on computers. In most cases, to do so you need to buy a retail version of Windows 7 that is the same or better then the version installed on your computer and do a Clean install which wipes out everything already installed, including any programs you may have actually wanted to use.

A much cheaper method is to remove the installed junk. One program that helps do this is PC Decrapifier. It works with all versions of Windows 7, Vista and XP.

After that it's a matter of looking at what is installed and what you will actually use. If you're not sure, post back here with any questions and someone will be glad to help.

You should also consider removing Norton (Symantec) Anti-virus or McAfee Anti-virus and replacing it with Microsoft Security Essentials which is a good, free AV program that does not have a big, negative impact on system performance. That along with the Firewall that comes with Windows 7 gives you decent protection.

The copies of Norton and McAfee are typically 3 month trial versions and at the end of that time you have to buy them. I have no objection to buying software but in this case I don't see the need to do so.

Many times there is a trial version of Microsoft Office that expires right after you get used to using it and then have to buy if you want to continue using it. Oracel Open Office is a good, free, replacement.

Onc other addition I would make is the Pro (purchased) version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware. The free version is good for cleaning up but the Pro version gives you good, active protection from Spyware and it's ilk.

These are just my opinions. Others may disagree.

 

[defense]

Thanks for taking the time to reply. The new comp is from Dell so I'm assuming that I will not get a disk, although I do own Windows 7 Ultimate. The new comp is also the Vostro so as far as I know there's no bloatware on the machine when it arrives. Am I correct with this?

 

[thefabe]

Just a guess but I've never seen a new system that didn't have some amount of bloatware on it. Especially MacAfee Not only do I think it's junk but it's not an easily removed program.
IT can be done but not as simple as using CCleaner it always leaves some harder to remove files on it.

Hopefully you'll not get to much trash with it. You've been given some really good posts to help with that anyways.IMHO
Fabe

 

[gregrocker]

You don't need to buy a new copy of Win7 to clean install a factory OEM pre-installed with Windows 7. Just find a Win7 installation DVD, or unlock all versions in any retail DVD, to reinstall using the Product key on OEM sticker.

Here are tips for getting a purrfect reinstall of factory OEM: http://www.sevenforums.com/installation-setup/125874-re-install-windows-7-a.html#post1086729

Until then, you can uninstall the factory bloatware following these tips: http://www.sevenforums.com/installa...-all-four-primary-partitions.html#post952573s

A Vostro likely won't have much bloatware since it's a business computer, so I'd run it for awhile to see if you like the performance with the Dell Factory utilities which some consider crapware as well.

If you decide to reinstall, I'd keep the Recovery Partition and wipe everything else since it is a more stable way to run factory Recovery (if needed) than the Recovery Disks, which I would also make in case the HD dies.

 

[mjf]

I have removed McAfee by (only) running the MCPR tool. I cannot locate any significant remnants and currently run MSE + Malwarebytes. There may be some cobwebs in the registry.

 

[Bare Foot Kid]

Hello defense, welcome to Seven Forums!



To be honest with you, if the PC is brand new and it is not giving you any issues, I would leave well-enough alone, if it ain't broke don't fix it; if you mess with the Operating System / Hard Disk Drive partitions you will void the warranty.

 

[theog]

One thing you should always do with a new OEM PC, is make your Recovery Disks.

 

[mjf]

I agree totally with BFK and theog.

BUT removing McAfee will not affect your warranty. If you haven't already paid for it I strongly suggest you don't. Use MCPR to get rid of it and use the free microsoft MSE and free Malwarebytes. You may want the features of the bought Malwarebytes (pretty cheap).

Also, remove other trial software (stuff they want more $ for) you don't want.

Making your factory recovery disks should always be your first priority.
I don't know your experience level. If it's low, don't fiddle with things like repartitioning etc and definitely leave your factory recovery partition alone.

I suggest removing unwanted software sooner rather than later. If your system spits the dummy, just do a factory restore and keep at it.

Final bit of unsolicited advice.
(1) Read the tutorials on imaging ( I use Windows inbuilt and Macrium Free). Imaging is one of the most valuable things you can do. Invest in an external USB HDD - basic no frills one (no added backup software).
(2) Make a "System Repair" DVD (or 2). You will need them one day!

For (1) & (2) go to the Backup & Restore " screen only 2 separate buttons to press!

 

[Tews]

(1) Read the tutorials on imaging ( I use Windows inbuilt and Macrium Free). Imaging is one of the most valuable things you can do. Invest in an external USB HDD - basic no frills one (no added backup software).
(2) Make a "System Repair" DVD (or 2). You will need them one day!

The best advice yet!!

 

[Bare Foot Kid]

Hello again.



That all being said, here's some interesting information you may find useful and be sure to post back with any further questions you may have and to keep us informed.


After you have copied out or made back-ups of the data you need to save, if you can find an exact Windows version that the PC shipped with you can do a clean install using the activation key on the COA sticker attached to the PC though it may require a robo-call to MS to sort the OEM batch-key.

How to Activate Windows 7 by Phone


If you can't find an exact same version, you could use the info in this tutorial to create an "all Versions" installer of any version Windows installer, to install using the same method I posted above and be sure to post back with any further questions you may have and to keep us informed.

Windows 7 Universal Installation Disc - Create


Though if there's nothing on the PC you need to save, I'd do a complete wipe (secure erase) of the entire Hard Disk Drive first.

SSD / HDD : Optimize for Windows Reinstallation

 

[defense]

Thanks for all the replies. While I know some things about computers, I have no idea how to partition the HD. Maybe it's best if I leave well enough alone. This will be my third vostro and they come with virtually nothing loaded on them.

 

[Bare Foot Kid]

That's probably best as bloatware is the primary reason to go that route; I'm curious, do those machines come with a 'hidden' factory recovery partitionor just a set of recovery disks?