Took comp. for diagnosis...back, I can't open my files!!!  

Windows 10 October 2018 Update rollout now paused
Windows 10 October 2018 Update rollout now paused - Windows 10 Forums
--- That is for version 1809

Please run winver so we'll know what version you are using: mine looks like this

This is the service manual for your Dell computer
https://downloads.dell.com/manuals/a...nual_en-us.pdf
Go to page 18 & 19: it describes how to remove & replace the hard drive.
If your printer is working, print those pages as a handy reference if you want to try do that yourself.

I HAVE GREAT NEWS ABOUT THE FATE OF MY DESKTOP COMPUTER!!!

Hello EVERYLONE: I mentioned that, as suggested by MeAndMyComputer, I was taking it to the Microsoft Store in NYC for a thorough diagnosis, and if its found to be bad I'll throw it out, but as MS told me, if the HDD is ok they'll install the Windows, update drivers and don't recall what other things, well...it was found OK, they fixed it and...no charge! I can't believe it!!!

ALL of you great techies who've aided me in this mountain climb - a hug with my deepest appreciation! And to MeAndMyComputer a special hug and thanks for suggesting to take it to Microsoft while relating to me the story of his friend who had been successful in doing that and urged me to try it.

Well, MeAnd, I've followed your advice and I too was successful! Another hug and deep thanks you!!!

I told them the story of that techie (I can now tell you who it is (I could've told you before, I don't know why I kept it)): "Sebastian at comptechnyc.com - one man operation") and they told me they'll "de-escalate" him which I don't exactly know what it means but will find out when I go to pick up my "new" Dell desktop computer at age 10!!! Weird huh? But this is my 3rd experience with Dell and they shone by their longevity in my cases at least. I'm sorry my new laptop is not a Dell....it's a Lenovo.

AGAIN, THANKS SO MUCH TO EVERYONE! I'll still keep this thread because it's filled with most precious suggestions for doing something positive to an ailing computer! ;o) Adela

P.S. Anyone knows why I always get only the "Post Quick Reply" without Review? Thanx.

Word Man said:

Just click "Go Advanced" instead to get all the bells & whistles and Preview option. Quick Reply is exactly only just that.

Oh thank you!!! I thought of trying the Advanced but afraid to get something else, I'm funny, no? I recognize, Quick Reply has its merits too. Thank you again!

Thank you very much for letting us know your computer's successful road to recovery.
I'd like to recommend a system image backup plan, many of us use Macrium Reflect Free and it has never let me down.
--- I have an end-of the month schedule so that I know the computer is ready for the upcoming month as new and up-to-date Windows Updates are on the horizon.

On your user accounts, make sure to remember your log-in passwords.
--- Personally I have a Microsoft account and a local admin account on each of my 2 computers.
--- That doesn't conform to Microsoft's recommendation but that's me.
--- It allows more flexibility to handle a password issue if it comes up.
--- With all of that said though, if you maintain scheduled system image backups, that's the best key to recovery.

When you get your computer up & running, please let us know what version it has: it will be interesting to know if it's 1803 or 1809.

That's great news, I'm pleased you got it sorted with no hassle in the end.