ITC Help Desk

Rebuilding Your Computer

Before You Begin

You should have the following materials on hand before you being rebuilding your computer:

  • All of the discs that came with your computer when it was purchased
  • Installers for any software that you have added since purchasing this computer
  • Access to a working computer to download necessary files you will burn to CD or copy to other removable media (e.g. USB FLASH drive, external hard drive)
  • The AC Power Adapter for your computer
  • Two to three hours of your time

Warning: All files currently on your hard drive will be destroyed as part of the rebuilding process. Back up all important files to the UVa Home Directory Service or to removable media.

Rebuilding DCI Computers

Rebuilding Non-DCI Computers

Hiring Someone for the Job

If you are not completely comfortable performing a rebuild of your computer yourself, there are local vendors whom you can hire to do the job. Cavalier Computers is one vendor that provides this service for a fee. You can contact them to arrange to drop off your computer for a rebuild. IMPORTANT: You must provide all operating system and software CDs with license keys for reinstallation. If you have a manufacturer's restore CD, bring that as well. Cavalier Computers can be reached at 924-3475.

You can also consult the local Yellow Pages for other computing support/repair companies in the area for assistance in rebuilding your computer.

For additional assistance, please contact the ITC Help Desk at 434-924-3731.

© 2009 by the Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia.

The information contained on the University of Virginia’s Department of Information Technology and Communication (ITC) website is provided as a public service with the understanding that ITC makes no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, concerning the accuracy, completeness, reliability or suitability of the information, including warrantees of title, non-infringement of copyright or patent rights of others. These pages are expected to represent the University of Virginia community and the State of Virginia in a professional manner in accordance with the University of Virginia’s Computing Policies.