It isn't, and the Windows Start-up Disk that I had wasn't worth jack in this case. That's why it's important to have a back-up rescue disk, or boot disk. You make it from the security software or virus-detection software — Guard Dog, Norton, McAfee, to name a few — that you've taken the initiative to install on your computer. Open that software's help index, type in "boot disk," and follow the instructions. Make that boot disk now, if you haven't already.

In my case, the back-up boot disk saved me. It was able to identify the virus pattern and allow me access into the DOS level so that I could reinstall my Windows operating system.

Be Prepared

Now this is where being organized comes into play. You, of course, have the disks for all software, including your operating system, installed on your computer. And it's all in one place — a tin canister or locked drawer, perhaps. Every disk or CD is clearly and accurately labeled.

You also have on paper in an easily accessible place the registration numbers, or product key codes, for all that software as well as each manufacturer's technical support number. You've done as your software manufacturer advised and registered your software with them already.

Here's why. Most software manufacturers, Microsoft in particular, will require a registration number or product key code upon reinstallation of their software. If you have those numbers in a digitized file with no computer to read them, then you don't have access to those important numbers. In my case, I had done as the manufacturer suggested and kept the numbers on paper with my software installation instructions. I also kept those instructions together in one easily accessible place — my bookcase.

Still, many software manufacturers will change the registration numbers, or product key codes, from your original software, forcing you to contact them for the new access numbers. Their registration records will enable them to verify your original product numbers while providing them with the authorization needed to disclose to you the new product codes. That said and done, you can now reinstall your operating system and computer software, particularly that of your Internet Service Provider.

Nothing Remains the Same

Things change, particularly software. You may not recall or even have noticed, but you've probably updated your software since your original purchase. Here's where you lose time. You must now use your Internet connection to update the software you've just installed because old software doesn't read new files. And, most likely, your recent back-up files are in the new file formats.