If your Gateway laptop crashes frequently or won't boot, it may be time to reset it
You can start with a system restore, which will attempt to return the laptop to a state where it was working properly. It is recommended to start with this operation, which allows you to keep all your data. If the first method doesn't work, you can use the Recovery Manager or Windows installation disc to restore your Gateway to factory conditions.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Performing a System Restore
Step 1. Learn what system recovery is all about
This operation returns the system settings, programs, and drivers to an earlier state. Allows you to try to return the system to a state where it was working properly. The Restore doesn't change your data and documents, but it removes any programs you installed after the restore point date.
This is the recommended first step in fixing your computer, as it does not require a data backup
Step 2. Restart the laptop and hold the key
F8. Make sure you hold it down while booting. The "Advanced Boot Options" menu will open.
Step 3. Select "Safe Mode with Command Prompt" from the list of options
Some files will load and after a few moments the command prompt will open.
Step 4. Open the System Restore utility
The command to enter differs depending on the operating system in use.
- Windows 7, 8 and Vista: Type rstrui.exe and press Enter.
- Windows XP: Type% systemroot% / system32 / restore / rstrui.exe and press Enter.
Step 5. Select the restore point
A list of available restore points will appear along with the date and time, as well as a brief summary of why they were created. Try to select one that is older than when your computer problems started. Click Next> once you have chosen the restore point.
You can view the restore points that Windows does not consider relevant by checking the "Keep multiple restore points" box
Step 6. Wait for the restore operation to finish and your computer to restart
The process can take a few minutes. When Windows has completed the restore successfully, you will receive a confirmation message.
Remember that you will need to reinstall any programs you installed after the restore point date. Be careful, because one of those applications could be causing the problems
Troubleshooting
Step 1. I can't open the "Advanced Boot Options" menu
This usually happens with Windows 8 systems, which boot up so quickly that they don't give you time to access the menu.
- Open the Windows App Bar by swiping from the right side of the screen or by moving the mouse to the lower right corner.
- Click on Settings, then on "Power".
- Hold Shift and click "Restart". Your computer will restart and the advanced options menu will open.
Step 2. None of the restore points solve the problem
If you don't have a point old enough or no one allows you to troubleshoot the computer, you will need to completely reset the laptop to factory settings. Read the section below for instructions.
Part 2 of 3: Restore the Laptop to Factory Condition
Step 1. If possible, backup your data
Restoring your Gateway to factory settings will erase all data on your hard drive, so make a copy if you want to keep some important files. Click here for some tips on how to do it.
If you can't boot into Windows, you can use a Linux Live CD to access your files and copy them to an external drive. On the internet you can find instructions on how to create a Live CD and how to use it
Step 2. Plug the laptop into a power outlet
The reset can take a long time, and if the battery runs out in the middle of the operation, serious problems could occur. Make sure your computer is connected to power before continuing.
Step 3. Restart your computer and press
Alt + F10 as soon as the Gateway or Acer logo appears.
Press the keys several times if nothing happens at first. The Recovery Manager will load.
If asked, press Enter
Step 4. Select "Restore Operating System to Factory Defaults"
You will be asked several times to confirm the operation. The reset will erase all data on the disk, then reinstall Windows and your computer's default programs. The procedure can take up to an hour.
You have the option to keep your data when you restore your computer, but this option is not recommended, as that data may be causing the system problems
Step 5. Create an account and start using your computer
Once this is complete, the laptop will start up as if it were the first time you turned it on after purchase. You will be asked to create a Windows account and configure your personal settings.
Troubleshooting
Step 1. I can't log into the Recovery Manager
If you previously formatted the hard drive or installed a new one, the recovery partition will no longer be present. You must use a recovery disc or a Windows installation disc to erase all data on your computer and reinstall the operating system. Read the following section for instructions on how to use these discs.
Step 2. Resetting the computer does not correct the problem
If you have completely wiped the data inside the laptop and reinstalled Windows using factory reset, but the problem persists, the cause is probably a hardware component.
Installing a new hard drive or new RAM are fairly simple and can help you solve the problem. If you are still not progressing, please contact Gateway support
Part 3 of 3: Using a Recovery or Installation Disk
Step 1. If possible, find your recovery disk
Laptops often require various specific drivers, and using the recovery disc is the easiest way to ensure they are reinstalled during a reset. If you can't use the Recovery Manager because the recovery partition was wiped, try the recovery disc. You can order one directly from Gateway.
Step 2. Find or create a Windows installation disc if you can't find the recovery one
If you don't have a specific disk for your laptop, you can use a Windows installation disk to wipe your computer data and reset it. You need a disk of the same version of Windows as the one currently installed.
- If you are using Windows 7 and have a valid product key, you can create a disc here. You need a blank DVD or USB stick with at least 4GB of space.
- If you are using Windows 8 and have a valid product key, you can create a disc here. You need a blank DVD or USB stick with at least 4GB of space.
Step 3. Restart your computer and repeatedly press F12
On Gateway laptops, this button opens the start menu. Press it repeatedly as soon as the Gateway or Acer logo appears.
Step 4. Change the boot order
To use a recovery disc or install Windows from the disc drive, you need to set up your computer to boot from the disc drive first than the hard drive. You can do this from the start menu.
If you have created an installation USB drive, select it as the first boot device
Step 5. Save your settings and reboot
Make sure the Windows installation disc or drive is inserted.
Step 6. Press a key when prompted
If you are using a recovery disc, the Recovery Manager will start, or if you are using a Windows installation disc the operating system setup process will start.
- If you are using the Recovery Manager, refer to the previous section of the instructions to restore your laptop.
- If you are using a Windows installation disc, read on.
Step 7. Set your language preferences and select "Install Windows" or "Install Now"
The operation will erase all data on the hard drive and restore the system from scratch.
Step 8. Select the "Custom (Advanced)" installation if prompted
This way you can make sure that all data on your computer is deleted.
Step 9. Delete the partitions
When asked where you want to install Windows, you will see all the partitions on your hard drive appear. Select all and click "Delete" to delete all data in the handset.
Step 10. Select the only remaining partition as the destination for installation
The program will automatically format it with the correct file system and start installing the Windows files.
Step 11. Wait for the installation to finish
The operation usually takes about half an hour. You can check the progress on the screen.
Step 12. Finish the installation and enter your product key
The product key is 25 characters long and you can usually find it on a sticker attached to the bottom of the laptop or in the computer documentation. If you are unable to retrieve it, you can contact Gateway.
Step 13. Download the necessary drivers for your laptop
Laptops have many special hardware components and as a result require special drivers to get the most out of them. Visit support.gateway.com and select the "Driver downloads" section. Enter your laptop details and download all recommended drivers and software.
Troubleshooting
Step 1. Resetting your computer does not solve the problem
If you've completely formatted your laptop and reinstalled Windows with a factory reset, but the problem persists, the cause is probably a failure.
