retrieval of programs and files after re-installation of windows

[adamw]

My old computer was infected with a virus that I could not remove from windows. I used Avast's antivirus software during boot up and moved files to the "chest". then I could not start windows 2000 anymore. so i reinstalled it. (repair option did not work). I was not aware that I would lose all programs and files. Is there a way to recover these files. I especially would like to get my outlook address book and the bookmarks I created with Firefox back.

thanks..

[ɹəuəllıʍ ʇɐb]

Welcome to the Windows Forum.

I am sorry to say that without a backup there is very little chance that you can recover any data after a full Windows reinstallation. Most files will be overwritten in the process.

You can try, but don't hold too much hope, with http://www.recuva.com/

[Dencandy]

I was not aware that I would lose all programs and files. Is there a way to recover these files. I especially would like to get my outlook address book and the bookmarks I created with Firefox back.

thanks..

Maybe your OE address book was more or less identical with your Contacts list with your email provider. If so you should be able to download your contacts list from the e-mail server. I did this recently with my Hotmail contacts list - I think it was via Import in the address book menu.