Re-Installing Windows XP SP2

[Devia Eleven]

I was wondering if it was possible to re-install windows xp sp2 with a disc that didn't come with the computer.

[ken_cinder]

Of course it is....

 

 

I haven't purchased an OS since Windows 98 SE....

 

[Devia Eleven]

Well I've been looking to fully format my computer, to the point where it is as clean as it was when I first bought it meaning the harddrive. The last time I re-installed windows, it kept the all of the user accounts and some software, but I was wondering if there was a way to fully 100% erase and clean my harddrive during the re-installation process.

[ken_cinder]

Yes. you just need to select to format the partition when you go to install. I just switched from XP Pro to XP Pro 64 last weekend and didn't pay enough attention, I installed over the existing Windows partition without formatting and it kept all the user folders etc.

[Devia Eleven]

Much obliged man.

[MasterPhW]

I also can recommend you to use NLite before installing it, because you can create a 100% personified copy of you installation.

[Devia Eleven]

WTF

 

I re-installed windows, in the process, I deleted 2 partitions and now I only have one, all of my previous files are still on my harddrive. And everytime I boot my computer, it keeps asking me this.

 

Choose which OS you want to start with

 

Windows Xp Home Edition

Windows Xp Home Edition

 

When I click the second choice, it says it has an error.

 

All of my files are still here and all of the user accounts are here aswell, I did something wrong I don't know what it was.

 

It never gave me the choice to format my computer.

Edited December 3, 2007 by Devia Eleven