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How do I install windows xp back on my computer?

I need to format my computer. I have the original windowsXP that came with my computer and my computer says I can't install it because it is the older version. What do I need to do to use my windows xp cd?

Public Comments

1. you could reboot with your xp cd and clean instal the xp. If the reboot doesn't work with cd drive check in your bios setting. Remember to backup everything that you need before you do this. Always have all the driver ready before you do this.
2. first is your Xp an upgrade? if so you'll need to purchase another copy I'd suggest trying to find a student @ your local college and ask them to purchase you one @ the campus bookstore it'll be alot cheaper.
3. Put you XP CD in CD rom and give upgrade command that will saves your previos data
4. As that CD came with the computer that means it has to be a bootable disc. Insert the disc in the CD ROM. Now just turn off your computer and go to the BIOS mode (mostly by pressing "del" button) After that is done just select the first boot device as CD ROM and then save the changes and the computer will reboot. Perform a clean install of Windows XP A clean installation refers to removing all data from your hard disk by repartitioning and reformatting your hard disk and reinstalling the operating system and programs to an empty (clean) hard disk. You should back up all important information before you perform a clean installation of Windows XP. After you have backed up all your important information, follow these steps to install Windows XP: 1.Start your computer from the Windows XP CD-ROM. To do this, insert the Windows XP CD-ROM into your CD drive or DVD drive, and then restart your computer. 2.When you see the "Press any key to boot from CD" message, press any key to start the computer from the Windows XP CD-ROM. 3.At the Welcome to Setup screen, press ENTER to start Windows XP Setup. 4.Read the End-User License Agreement, and then press F8. 5.Follow the instructions on the screen to select and format a partition where you want to install Windows XP. 6.Follow the instructions on the screen to complete Windows XP Setup.
5. During installation, select "new install". and when asked for the drive on wich to install windows. Delete all the partitions from the list shown in the lower box. Then create new partitions in the unpartitioned space. (It is done by pressing keys on the keyboard, the instructions are provided on the screen) So first you delete all the partitions, then create new partitions. Then select the uppermost partition C, to start installation. It will format it first then begin the installation. You can format the remaining partition also, either from this place, or after the windows installation is completed. But for that you have to go control panel > administrative tools > computer management > disk management . Then select the unformatted space and create a new logical drive in it, after formatting. You can also look in my blog for detailed instructions on reinstalling windows.(it is on second page) http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-6.TyULMiaafk4PnY1H5X
6. try to go to a technician. he'll tell you what to do best!
7. if you want to format your computer you will have to do a little more than reinstall windows. depending on how you want your re-format, you should start by backing up all your files, then re-start your computer and delete the partitions, create new ones and then format them. it will erase -everything- on your computer but it is something you should do anyways at least once every 2 years.