How to Fix Windows XP Without Losing Data

Microsoft Windows XP was released with an internal repair option on the installation CD-ROM diskette. This option gives you the ability to repair corrupted system files or boot problems without losing your data. The process repairs the operating system files while leaving your programs intact. You need the installation CD-ROM to use the repair process. Because the Windows XP CD-ROM is bootable, you simply insert the CD into the drive and the repair begins.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP installation CD

Instructions

1. Insert the Windows XP installation CD diskette and reboot the machine. The XP installation CD is a bootable device, so you are automatically sent to the Windows installation screen.

2. Press the "Enter" key at the welcome screen. Press "F8" to accept the Windows installation licensing agreement.

3. Press the "R" key at the next screen. In this screen, it explains that pressing "R" starts the repair process. At this point, it may take several minutes to copy all the files. Windows starts the process and copies system files to the hard drive.

4. Remove the installation CD diskette from the drive when the installation wizard prompts you to reboot the computer. After the diskette is removed, press any key to reboot the machine. The Windows XP operating system is repaired and all your programs and settings are available when you log in to the machine after the reboot.

Tips & Warnings

• When you replace system files using the repair process, you need to install Windows updates and hotfixes again.

References

• Michael Stevens Tech: How to Perform a Windows XP Repair Install