[tarheelswamprat]

The newer Dells have the System Restore installation files on a hidden partition that is accessible on boot. If the hard drive itself has not failed, but the Windows install is simply trashed, do the following:

First, completely power off the computer, then then power it back on. As soon as you see the "Dell" logo simultaneously press the Ctrl + F11 keys ONE TIME ONLY. If it's a very fast machine your window to do this can pass quickly, so press them as soon as you press the power button.

This should boot the computer to the System Restore screen. Just follow the prompts to reinstall a clean install of Windows and the bundled programs which originally came with the computer.

If the drive is bad, you'll have to replace the hards drive and reinstall from a Windows disk.

[Slump Tester]

WHOA! The knowledge base on FR never ceases to amaze me. I did the control-F11 thing, and it took me to a Symantec Restore screen.

It said it was windows 98, but I'm seeing something about NTFS files. I'll let you know how this comes out. Thanks!!!!