You can run off a repair disc using recdisc.exe( just type it into start search box). It includes the exact same system recovery (repair) options that are already on the dvd.
These repair functions are very useful - particularly if you can't get into Windows. Boot the dvd /recovery cd and you can access, startup repair, restore system image ( if you already have one - and if it can find it ), as well as system restore and command line.
System Image - makes an image of your o/s and additional partitions if you like.
The idea is you can restore the entire image if you get into trouble - then you would be in the exact same position as when you made the image.
There are 3rd party apps. that do the imaging much better - many of them have free versions.
