Windows XP Reinstall - Help!

[directmarketingadvice]

Hi guys,

I want to wipe my pc clean and re-install windows XP (and everything else).

I found some instructions which tell me to boot from the CD. However, when I rerstart my PC, windows loads and the o/s cd doesn't start automatically.

Any idea how I can get it to boot before windows?

I do have an old Win98 floppy which would allow me to get to dos. I was hoping I could use that and then format c: to clear the hard drive, but it tells me it's an invalid command.

Ideas?

Steve

[MartBrooks]

When the laptop boots you might see a message like "Press F8 to enter setup" (the key to press will vary). That will get you into your BIOS setup screen. Looking for a menu option for "boot settings" or "boot order" or "boot priority" and you'll most likely see that this currently has your internal hard disk first.

Make your CD-ROM the highest priority boot device and reboot.

[cmcp]

Yip, I agree with the above. Sounds like you need to set your BIOS to boot from CD (triggering the install CD) rather than C: (triggering current install).

[the locksmith]

The above is correct you have to make sure your boot order is correct.
Re trying to format your hard drive ... Windows will not let you format a disk that is in use, the only way to do it is to do a fresh install.

Remember you will need your Product Key to re-activate XP after the install. If you don't have it you can google for a couple of programs that will read your product key from your present set up.

Good Luck !

[cmcp]

Although you've probably got your data and apps covered, remember your bookmarks. Gets me everytime!

[Dawg]

When you have done it you might as well download SP3 from Microsoft (http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=68c48dad-bc34-40be-8d85-6bb4f56f5110&displaylang=en) and do all the updates and patches in one fell swoop.

(For the linguistically aroused using the term 'fell swoop' and in particular the word 'fell', which has the same roots as 'felon', makes no suggestion that Mr Gibson is using hooky software.)

[directmarketingadvice]

Thanks for the help everyone.

Tin made the mistake of calling me while I was trying to work out how to get into the BIOS. So I forced him to walk me through it.

I now have a shiny new version of XP installed and PC feeling much happier.

Steve

[Tin]

So I forced him to walk me through it.

True... I was forced into helping him:D;)

Glad it's sorted Steve.

Ray

[An Oasis]

Tin made the mistake of calling me while I was trying to work out how to get into the BIOS. So I forced him to walk me through it.

ROFLMAO poor Tin.:D

[the locksmith]

A friend in need is a friend indeed ! :)