How to Reinstall Windows XP

These days, owning a PC is almost a necessity. As efficient as computers may be, there are times when you run into technical issues with your PC. When you've exhausted every possible remedy for your situation, it may be necessary to reinstall Windows XP in order to regain complete functionality of your PC.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Windows XP Installation CD
• Windows Installation CD

Before You Reinstall Windows XP

1. Find the Windows CD that came with your PC as well as the disks belonging to your application software. Be sure to copy installation files for important programs you've downloaded to a CD or removable flash drive.
2. Locate the instructions you received from your ISP for setting up your network connections and keep them handy.
3. Go to your “C:\Documents and Settings” folder and copy its contents to a CD or flash drive. Do the same with the installers for your computer's graphics as well as any other important files or programs you want to preserve.

Reinstalling Windows XP & Reconfiguring Internet Connection

4. Insert your Windows CD into your PC and reboot your computer. If you didn't get a CD with your PC, the necessary files are stored somewhere on your hard drive. To find them, press the keys noted on your screen as Windows reboots. This differs from PC to PC but it's usually “F1.” Contact your computer's manufacturer if you can't identify the prompt.
5. Follow the prompts on the screen until the reinstallation is complete.
6. Right click “My Network Places” to begin setting up your Internet connection.
7. Follow each prompt and enter the corresponding data you received from your ISP.

Updating Drivers After You Reinstall Windows XP

8. Click your “Start” button.
9. Select “Windows Update” and follow each prompt.
10. Reinstall and update each application when the downloads complete.
11. Restore all of the data you saved to your CD or flash drive in Step 3 of the “Before You Reinstall Windows” section.

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