...windows installation cd. however it is genuine and i have the original product key on my system. is there anyway of making a copy of my windows files and use that to re-install my windows xp?
2007-02-03 23:38:59 · 11 answers · asked by ashley jones 1 in Computers & Internet ➔ Software
It's difficult to install even if you have the CD! Borrow a CD - install to a folder called Windows2. Then use your product key and it should work OK. Then delete the corrupted files - or the whole of the old version!
2007-02-04 00:17:18 · answer #1 · answered by Mike10613 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Search for a folder in Windows called I386. Include hidden files & folders in your search by clicking on the "advanced options" button & in folder options click "show hidden files & folders". In there should be a WINNT32.exe, double click it to start the installer (if it says that your windows is different, then go into control panel, add or remove software/programs, & uninstall windows xp service pack 2 or 3). You will need to activate Windows XP though after 30 days (I did mine last night; it's free to phone & easy to do but when it asks you the questions press the corresponding telephone buttons for: bought pc with windows installed, the copy of windows xp is only on one pc, that you changed the hardware, but you didn't change the motherboard, then your application should be accepted). Backup ALL your Windows files to DVD-R's or an external USB Hard Drive or High Capacity Flash Drive though because you'll have a tough time installing the drivers for your hardware otherwise.
2007-02-03 23:42:23 · answer #2 · answered by garlicjnr2001 3 · 2⤊ 1⤋
If you want a truly fresh install that results in only windows files on your hard drive instead of the stuff that accumulates, you'll need a CD.
You can borrow a disk that has the same "flavor" of operating system as your current one (e.g. Home, Pro, Media Center), then you can reinstall and simply enter your current product key (see http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml for a small program to get your current key).
Otherwise you're stuck with deleting programs from add/delete, running registry cleaners to remove traces of old programs, using System Restore and the like.
You could also contact the company which sold you the computer and ask for a copy.
2007-02-03 23:50:31 · answer #3 · answered by dug 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Nope, you'll have to own the CD in order to re-install your Windows XP. Try borrowing it from a friend and using your own product key to install.
2016-03-29 04:15:22 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
How to Reinstall Windows Without Losing Your Data
http://pcworld.about.com/magazine/2109p156id111652.htm
You have several options:
- Take your PC to a computer shop and have the CD drive fixed, or
- Acquire the necessary skills to install your hard disk in some other PC so that you can copy your WinXP CD to your hard disk, or
- Ask an expert to re-install WinXP for you.
2007-02-03 23:45:15 · answer #5 · answered by curious 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I recently reinstaled my windows xp.
all you need is a valid key and a copy of windows xp cd-any key will do
I heard very few people can aford an original cd .
I have a product key if you need one.
2007-02-03 23:48:17 · answer #6 · answered by Mihai E 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Sometimes manufacturers include the windows disc on a separate partition of the hard drive which is "invisible"... Packard bell do this for one..
to see if this is the case tot up the total size of hard drive partitions and if there is a couple of gb missing then it may be the case.
On a packard bell machine you restart the machine and hit f11 just as the p.o.s.t screen runs and this accesses the "reinstall windows partition"
HTH
John
2007-02-04 01:10:15 · answer #7 · answered by lav750 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
did you make a restore disc ? this instruction came with my computer . you can also get a disc from the company that makes your computer .
what do you NEED to reinstall for ?
Go to RUN . Type sfc /scannow
windows file protection
let this run through UNINTERUPTED it will find and fix .
2007-02-03 23:59:11 · answer #8 · answered by martinmm 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
unless you have a restore disc or can download one from the manufacturers website, no.
2007-02-03 23:45:01 · answer #9 · answered by koalatcomics 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I can't help you with this, but if you go to any website for a download please be careful. You could be downloading any number if viruses or other nasties.
2007-02-03 23:58:04 · answer #10 · answered by ♥ Divine ♥ 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋