If you perform a clean reinstall of Windows XP, your computer will be starting from the very beginning. All your old information and all your old shortcuts will be gone. Why would you want this? With the rise of viruses and malware, knowing how to scrap one version of XP and install a new one is necessary. Luckily, the makers of Windows XP have made this process simple and efficient.
Preparation And Initial Steps
Before you even need to reinstall Windows XP, you'll need to hang on to the CD containing the Windows XP operating system, the product key that goes with that CD and all related documentation. When it is time to reinstall, you'll be glad you have all this information. You'll also want to back up your computer regularly to make sure you don't lose important documents. To start reinstalling, insert the CD into your computer's CD drive, and restart your computer. When your computer reboots, you will presented with the option to Press Any Key to Boot from CD. Press any key.
Out With The Old Partition And In With The New
By booting from CD, you'll see the partitions that already exist on your hard drive. You will need to remove those partitions, which seems extreme, but the only way to have a clean reinstall is to remove all the partitions, period. Press D to delete the partitions. To create a new partition, choose the Unpartitioned Space option, and press Enter. You will then be presented with options of how you wish to format the installation, and you must choose to format by using the NTFS file system.
Reinstallation
Once you do that, you will be given the option to set up Windows XP. Choose the option by pressing Enter, and press F8 to agree to the licensing agreement. Enter any product keys as necessary. After this, pat yourself on the back, and celebrate. You have successfully completed a clean reinstallation of Windows XP.
Other Updates
After you have reinstalled Windows XP, you will need to reinstall Windows XP updates from the Windows Update page at the Microsoft Web site. This will help upgrade your security, although you'll still need to reinstall whichever security suite you were using. Also check for new, updated versions of Windows Media Player or Movie Maker, along with any other applications or drivers. You'll need to reinstall everything, and this process will take time.
Newer versions of Windows XP may offer fresh possibilities, and it could be a wise choice to replace your antiquated version with a sparkling new one. By following the aforementioned steps, you can become an expert on reinstallation.
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