How to Use a Startup Disk for Windows XP

A startup disk for Windows XP can be used to install the operating system on a computer without a bootable CD-ROM drive. Windows XP startup disks are available from Microsoft for download only. There are a number of situations where you might want to reinstall your Windows XP operating system. New computers are often bundled with lots of trial software. Sometimes it's easier to format your drive and reinstall the operating system to get rid of the trial software. Other your system may become slow and sluggish. A reinstall can get your system running fast again. If your system fails you will need a set of startup disks to perform a repair install.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Windows XP
• 6 floppy disks 1.44 MB

Instructions

1. Download the Windows XP startup disk program from Microsoft. See the References section below for a link to the Microsoft download page. Click the "Download" button to start the process.

2. Select "Open" at the prompt. It may give you the option to "Run this program from its current location" instead of open. Either option will begin the process and prompt you to insert the first 1.44 MB floppy disk. Press any key once the disk is in place.

3. Label the first disk "Windows Startup Disk One" once it is complete. Follow the prompts to insert each of the five remaining disks in turn and label each one as you remove it from the drive. Once you have written to all six disks, you have a working startup disk set for your Windows XP operating system.

Using Windows XP Startup Disks

1. Insert disk one of your startup disk set into the floppy drive and start your computer. You computer will boot from the disk and guide you through the installation process.

2. Enter each disk in turn at the prompt.

3. Finish the installation by inserting your Windows XP CD into the CD-ROM. Your reinstall will complete automatically.

References

• Microsoft: Windows XP Startup Disk Download