How to Create a Windows XP Start-Up Disc for Your Computer

Creating a Windows XP startup disk allows users to repair an existing XP installation or create a new one without the original CD. Startup disks restore or replace an operating system (OS) if the current OS fails or the hard drive crashes. Startup disks are especially useful to users unable to boot directly from the Windows XP CD. Use the steps in this guide to learn how to create a startup disk for Windows XP.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Windows XP CD
• Formatted floppy disks (six)

Formatting the Floppy Disks

1. Format your floppy disks if there is data already on them. Insert each used disk into the floppy drive. If your disks are new, no formatting is needed.

2. Open "My Computer" and right-click on the floppy drive and choose the "Format" option from the menu that appears. Click the "Start" button at the bottom of the "Format" menu.

3. Click the "Start" button at the bottom of the "Format" menu. Follow the process for each used disk.

Installing Windows XP

4. Download a copy of Microsoft's start-up disks to your desktop from the official site (see Resources). Run the program. When the program starts, it will ask you to insert a floppy disk.

5. Have the other five disks on hand. The program will write the start-up information to all six floppies.

6. Insert the first disk into your floppy disk drive in the computer you wish to work with and then power on the computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Formatting your computer will permanently erase all data on your hard drive.

Resources

• Windows Setup Disks Download