I have a Dell XPS M1530 running Windows Vista. Not sure if it was viruses or spyware or a malicious program, but somehow Windows is not operating properly. Even when connected to the internet, it cannot connect to Windows update pages and in general Windows update can't function, Windows Defender can't connect, etc.
I want to do a complete wipe and reinstall of Windows, but the DVD/CD drive doesn't work anymore (hardware issue).
I am trying to even get so far as to wipe Windows from the computer, but can't even do that.
Following Dell's instructions for system restore, I press F8 when the computer is starting to get to the Advanced Boot Options, then select "Repair Your Computer."
When I try to log on as a user with admin rights, I get a screen that says "The specified domain either does not exist or could not be contacted."
Any advice on what to try next?
Thanks!
CGM