Predesktop Area

The Predesktop Area Predesktop Area is the name used for two different technologies: Hidden Protected Area and Rescue and Recovery.

Hidden Protected Area

The Hidden Protected Area is a special area on your harddisk that can be hidden to the software running on your ThinkPad. It includes all the software and data needed to recover the preloaded state of the ThinkPad. The HPA also includes some diagnostic tools and a (MS Windows only) backup tool. The Hidden Protected Area was introduced with the R40, T40 and X30 series of ThinkPads. Current ThinkPads do not have Hidden Protected Areas.

Rescue and Recovery

Recent ThinkPads are shipped with the Rescue and Recovery technology. That technology uses a (hidden) partition for recovery of the preloaded state and diagnostic tools.