restoring/recovering files

There was a question about how to restore files in Windows...

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If the file is in the Recycle Bin, it can be easily restored from there:
open the Recycle Bin...
select the file(s) to restore...
restore the file(s)...
and, when you are done, close the Recycle Bin window.

I found a (Windows 2000) description at http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows2000/en/advanced/help/recycle_bin.htm

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If you have the Business, Enterprise, or Ultimate versions of Windows Vista you can try to restore a previous version...or shadow copy...of the file.

"Previous versions are either backup copies—copies of files and folders that you back up by using the Back Up Files wizard, or shadow copies—copies of files and folders that Windows automatically saves as part of a restore point....

"Right-click the file or folder, and then click Restore previous versions..."

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If the file was "deleted" from the hard drive, you can consider software that will try to help you recover the file. There's a lot of these products available...at the moment, I don't have any that I can recommend over others.

cannot uninstall software

Kelly called our radio show and said he was unable to uninstall some software from Windows Vista.

Try to do it from Safe mode...

If that doesn't work, you could consider using System Restore:
Turn back time on your PC
What is System Restore?
System Restore: frequently asked questions

unable to uninstall (antivirus) software

Frank called because he was unable to uninstall his antivirus product...

My suggestion is to try to uninstall it from Safe mode...

Symantec has had removal information, and tools, available on their website...

uninstalling programs

Paul has a computer that came with Norton 2005. He wants to uninstall it, and install a different (antivirus) product.

How to change or remove a program in Windows XP