Member Avatar for Kyle Verbeke

Howdy folks, recently, a slew of Adware, Trojans, and Malware in general has left my laptop nearly useless. Google searches are being hijacked, AntiVrius software isn't working, My System Restore points have all been deleted, and all Tech Support websites have been blocked. So, I've decided just to go with a clean installation of Windows XP, since everything of value to me has been backed up. Only problem is, I no longer have the Windows installation CD that came with my computer (Toshiba Sattelite A105), and buying a new copy of Windows is financially OUT OF THE QUESTION :P

However, in My Documents, I have a file called "WindowsXP-KB835935-SP2-ENU". Can I use this to reinstall Windows?

Note, I want to CLEAR my Hard Drive and reinstall XP. It should also be noted, that I am a complete NUB at computers, so try to explain it it simple terms for me.

Thanks a ton :)

  • 2 Contributors
  • 2 Replies
  • 117 Views
  • 10 Hours Discussion Span
  • Latest Post Latest Post by Kyle Verbeke

Dani AI

Generated

Short answer: that SP2 file is just a Service Pack updater — it is not a full Windows installer and cannot perform a clean reinstall by itself. A clean reinstall requires either an XP installation DVD or the OEM recovery media/partition that came with the laptop.

As suggested, check whether the Toshiba has an OEM recovery partition and a boot-time recovery key. If the recovery partition is still there it will restore the machine to factory state (drivers and all). If no partition exists the usual legal options are: order recovery discs from Toshiba, borrow a same-edition XP disc and use the laptop's COA product key (the sticker on the case), or reinstall from genuine installation media that matches the original edition (Home vs Professional). Do not use unknown or pirated ISOs — they introduce risks and may break activation.

Before wiping the drive, make sure backed-up files are clean. Scan the backup on a clean machine or with a bootable rescue scanner before copying anything back. Avoid running any backed-up executables, installers, or double-clicking macros inside documents until they have been checked.

A concise safe-reinstall workflow:

  • Try the OEM recovery option first (as suggested).
  • If none, obtain legitimate install media that matches the XP edition and keep the COA key handy.
  • Wipe and reinstall, then immediately install manufacturer drivers and applicable service packs.
  • Before going online, install up-to-date antivirus and run Windows Update repeatedly.
  • Restore personal files only after scanning them; recreate a fresh set of recovery media or a disk image once the system is clean.

Note: Windows XP reached end of support in April 2014 and will remain vulnerable. If possible, plan an upgrade to a supported OS for long‑term security.

Recommended Answers

All 2 Replies

Member Avatar for UrbanKhoja

Hmmm.....

Have you tried pressing F8 or F11 at boot up?

As some systems have a HDD recovery pre-installed and is accessed via one of those buttons. From memory I can't remember the process for Toshiba's, but will look into it for you.

Dazza :cool:

Member Avatar for Kyle Verbeke

I used to have a disc for that, but it broke :(
Buyng a new one is out of the question too :P

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.