How do I reload my Windows XP operating system?

Question

My laptop says that it was shut down improperlly then asks if I want to start windows, or start at an old safe point. I select one of these options then the windows bar comes up and begins to load, then,.........................nothing.

I was told I probablly need to reload the operating system. So, I should turn on the computer, load the disk, then what???

Answer 1

Personal opinion -- before I would format and reinstall, I would try for a Windows Repair.

*WindowsXP Repair Explained*
http://www.microsoft.com/resources/documentation/windows/xp/all/proddocs/en-us/options_to_use_when_a_system_will_not_start.mspx?mfr=true

WindowsXP Repair Tools
http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/repair_xp.htm#How%20to%20Repair%20Windows%20XP%20by%20Installing%20Over%20top%20of%20Existing%20Setup:

http://www.download-download-this.com/4.html?OVRAW=Windows%20Installer%20corrupted&OVKEY=window%20installer&OVMTC=advanced

Fix and/or Repair Windows
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/tips/xp_repair_install.htm
http://www.onsitechicago.com/support/index.php?_m=knowledgebase&_a=viewarticle&kbarticleid=23&nav=0

How to Perform a clean WindowsXP Repair Install
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm