Hi ctyank,
I have just had a look at the Gateway support pages for your PC, GM5416E, and the following is an extract from one of the manuals.
Dwarf
prepare to recover
"
When you first get your computer, it is a good idea to make a backup of the software that came with your system. Before you create this “recovery disc,” make sure that your computer has a recordable drive and that you have blank discs ready. Depending on the type of recordable
drive you use, you’ll need either several CD-R discs or one DVD-R or DVD+R disc. CD-RW, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW discs will not work. To create the disc, click (
Start), Gateway Recovery Center, then click Factory Recovery External Media and follow the on-screen instructions. When prompted, choose either Create System Recovery Discs (makes a backup of applications and drivers) or Create ISO image (creates complete system backup). Make your selection, then continue with the on-screen instructions."
reinstalling the operating system
"A backup copy of your hard drive’s original factory-installed contents is saved on a hidden area of your hard drive. This lets you restore your computer to its original factory settings.
1 Turn on or restart your computer, then press the F8 key on your keyboard repeatedly while your computer is starting. When the Advanced Boot Options screen appears, click Repair Your Computer.
2 Pick your keyboard country, then click Next. Log on as an Administrator, then click OK.
3 On the System Recovery Options screen, click Restore Application (last option). The System Recovery wizard opens.
4 Follow the on-screen instructions.
5 Click one of the following system recovery options when prompted
• Recovery with Automatic Data Backup
(recommended)— This moves the contents of the hard drive to the C:\My Backup folder and installs a new copy of Windows. This option saves your existing data files, but all programs must be re-installed and the program settings reconfigured. You need at least 4 GB of hard drive space to use this restore option
• Full Factory Recovery