<p><b>Automated System Recovery & how to configure XP Pro to enable it. </b>

Windows XP Pro contains a Special Tool - called<b> Automated System Recovery</b>-- Regrettably, ASR isn't switched on by default. But we can follow these steps to activate it, before the worst happens.

First, open the backup utility that comes with Windows XP: Choose <b>Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, Backup.</b> If you see the

Backup or Restore Wizard, click <b>Advanced Mode.</b> On the Welcome tab, click <b>Automated System Recovery Wizard .</b> Follow the prompts to make a backup of your system files. Note that this process backs up only the Registry and other files that are critical to starting Windows--not all of your computer's files. When the backup is finished, you'll be prompted to insert a blank floppy disk

in the drive. When the wizard is done, eject the disk and put it in a safe place.

In the future, if disaster strikes and you aren't able to boot your XP Pro machine, First, try booting Windows XP using either the Last Known Good Configuration. If that doesn't help then, insert your Windows XP installation CD and reboot your computer. Follow whatever

steps are necessary to boot Windows from the CD. When you're prompted in the status line at the bottom of the screen, press F2, insert

your ASR floppy disk, and then follow the on-screen prompts to restore your system.

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