Sony Support

Article ID : 00010066 / Last Modified : 11/01/2024Print

How to perform a system recovery using the VAIO Care software

    IMPORTANT: This article applies only to specific products and/or operating systems. Check Applicable Products and Categories for details.

    The VAIO Care software can be used to restore the C: drive only or the entire hard disk drive to the original factory software configuration. It also can be used to create Recovery Discs and reinstall original applications and drivers.

    IMPORTANT:

    • Before performing a recovery, go to eSupport website, download and install available software and driver updates, or check for knowledge base for solutions that can help you resolve your computer's issue. Downloads are posted on your model support page.  
    • This model does not require Recovery Discs. Recovery data is included on a special partition of the hard drive. Although, it is highly recommended to  create a set of Recovery Discs.
    • If the operating system will not start and no other troubleshooting can be performed, a recovery of the (C:) drive can be performed by starting the computer and pressing the F10 key or using Recovery Discs.
    • It is recommended to connect the AC adapter to the computer so power is not interrupted.
    • It is recommended to disconnect all external devices, such as printers, network cables, cameras, external hard drives or flash drives.
    1. Close all open programs
    2. Click the Start button and then click All Programs.
    3. In the All Programs menu, click the VAIO Care folder and then click VAIO Care.

      NOTE: If prompted for an administrator password or a User Account Control prompt is displayed, type the appropriate password, or click Yes.

    4. In the VAIO Care window, in the left pane, click Recovery & Restore.

      Image

    5. In the Recovery & Restore window, click to select the desired option:
      • Start Windows Restore

        NOTE: This option is used to launch Windows System Restore to restore the computer to a previous date.

      • Start Installation

        NOTE: This option is used to reinstall bundled applications and drivers.

      • Start Disc Creation

        NOTE: This option is used to create Recovery Discs that can be used to restore the computer to the original factory condition.

      • Start Recovery

        NOTE: This option is used to restore the computer to the original factory condition using a hidden partition on the hard drive.

      Image