The Absolute Best Way to Reinstall Windows XP

If you have been using your computer for quite some time now, you may have noticed some glitches in Microsoft's Windows operating system. This could be because of corrupted system files, disk errors or viruses. But whatever the cause, the simplest cure would be to conduct a complete reinstallation of Windows.

Before you start installing Windows XP, there are some things you have to do. First, locate your Windows CD (which came with your PC) and the CDs for your application software. If you don't have a Windows CD, then you also have other options, which will be discussed later. Also locate the instructions for configuring your network settings, which is usually sent to you by your ISP. Then, do necessary backups of important programs such as antivirus and firewall. Also copy the contents of whichever folder you keep your personal files in. Store these and any more critical data into any type of removable media. You can also collect installers for the latest drivers for your PC's hardware, say for the graphics card.

After you've done all the preparations, you are ready to install. Insert the Windows CD and reboot your system. If you don't have a Windows CD, then you can access the important files you need in a hidden partition on your hard drive. Just press the specified keys when you reboot, but before Windows loads. Since the keys vary from vendor to vendor, it helps to contact your PC's manufacturer if you don't see the prompt.

In several cases, the only option available is "Return the drive to its factory condition". This means losing all the data files in your PC. That's why you made backups of important data folders in the first place. But if you use Microsoft's Windows XP installation CD, you get more options such as preserving your files and settings. This helps a lot since you don't have to make copies and really start all over again.

The next step would be to reconfigure your network connections, reinstall some device drivers, and update XP and other applications manually. This is where your pre-installation preparations come in. Using the instructions for configuring your Internet connection, reestablish your Internet link. Then, reinstall and update your anti-spyware, antivirus, and firewall programs. Then, open your Device manager to see which device drivers need updates. This is indicated by a yellow question mark or red exclamation point. Yellow question mark means the device used is generic, and a red exclamation point means the device is not working. Also update drivers for printers, graphics board, and sound cards.

Next, visit Microsoft's Windows Update site. Choose Start, Windows Update, and then do what the prompts tell you. You will then be downloading several MBs of updates so it might be a good idea to seek diversion while your PC is downloading. Once downloading is completed, you can start reinstalling and updating your applications.

After restoring and updating important applications, start replacing your data. Using the copies you previously made, transfer them back to where they were originally located. Congratulate yourself as you have just learned how to reinstall Windows XP.