How to format your hard drive and re-install Windows XP

For all your PC users out there experiencing problems with your Windows XP operating system, this article may be for you. If you are experiencing slow performance, .dll errors, and occasional software crashes it may be time to take some action and start all over with a clean slate. This is a very drastic process and should only be attempted as a last resort.

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A computer running XP, that is in need of clean start.
• Windows XP installation CD-Rom.
• Valid product key (Comes with XP software)
• Spare time to get your computer back up and running.
• Basic computing knowledge

1. Step 1

   Back up all of the files you want to keep. Make sure absolutely nothing you need is left on the drive where you will be installing the new XP operating system. Usually, in most cases, your operating system is saved to the C: drive.

2. Step 2

   Say goodbye to your C: drive. Note: You are going to lose all files and folder that are left on this drive! Calm down, don't hyperventilate, make sure to take a couple deep breaths.

3. Step 3

   Insert your Windows XP CD into the CD-ROM drive. Then shut down the computer.

4. Step 4

   Re-boot your computer. During the boot process you should see an option that says "boot from CD". When you see this option, press F12 to boot from the CD. You may have to press a different button depending on the make and model of your computer.

5. Step 5

   After agreeing to Windows licensing agreement by pressing F8, you will be asked if you want to repair your current Windows XP setup. You want to press ESC to skip the repair and install a copy.

6. Step 6

   Delete the partition where Windows XP is currently installed. To select the partition, use the directional arrows to highlight the desired one. Hit "D" to delete it, and then hit "L" to confirm deletion.

7. Step 7

   Now you will have to produce a new partition. Select the empty space and press "C" to generate a new partition. Press "ENTER" to continue the installation process.

8. Step 8

   Select the partition you just created and format the drive as NTFS. Note that this is going to take quite a bit of time. Follow the steps through the setup process and soon you will start fresh with a new Windows XP installation.

9. Step 9

   Now that the setup is complete, you should see the desktop and icons in front of you. Make sure everything is working properly, such as the internet, printer, scanner, etc. If something is not working correctly it may be necessary to download and re-install device drivers. You can find any and all drivers on the internet.

10. Step 10

    You want to Update your new Windows XP installation. Open Windows update and let it do it's thing. This will keep your computer protected and up-to-date. Make sure you repeat this step every-so-often to created a protected computing environment.

11. Step 11

    Now all of those files you backed up in step 1 need to be replace on the new partition. Copy them to the desired location. You may also choose to customize your desktop or tweak other options pertaining to your new installation.

12. Step 12

    Enjoy your brand spankin' new copy of XP!!!