Member Avatar for syretz

I tried using the windows xp repair and it didn't help. If I choose reinstall a fresh copy of windows xp, what are the ramifications? Does it wipe out my files, my periperal drivers and DSL software? or nothing?

thanks

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As and noted, deciding to reinstall is significant. The steps below focus on practical preparation, safe data extraction, and quick post‑install recovery so the rebuild is predictable and as painless as possible.

Backup checklist — copy these to external media before you touch the installer:

  • User data and profiles: C:\Documents and Settings\<youruser>\ (My Documents, Desktop, Favorites). Enable "Show hidden files" to catch app data.
  • Mail and profiles: locate Outlook .pst via Outlook -> Account Settings -> Data Files and copy it; export other mail clients’ profiles.
  • ISP/connection settings: copy the dial-up/PPPoE phonebook rasphone.pbk at %ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Connections\Pbk\rasphone.pbk.
  • Extras: export browser bookmarks (or copy the Favorites folder), take a screenshot of Control Panel -> Add/Remove Programs, and save any important config files under Application Data.

Gather installers, keys and drivers:

  • Find the Windows product key (COA sticker on the case) and note third‑party serials. If needed, use a key‑finder tool from a working system to export keys.
  • Copy network and chipset drivers to USB so you can get online after install. Use Device Manager or dxdiag to note exact hardware IDs if drivers are hard to find.
  • Optionally export drivers with a utility so you can restore them without hunting.

Other recovery options and quick fixes:

  • If the repair route failed, try Recovery Console commands first: chkdsk /r and sfc /scannow (requires the XP CD). Boot to Safe Mode, check Event Viewer and system logs.
  • If the box won’t boot, attach the drive to another PC or use a Linux/WinPE live disk to pull files.
  • If you must reinstall, consider slipstreaming SP3 and essential drivers into the install media (nLite) to reduce post‑install work.

Keeping this checklist will let a reinstall proceed with minimal surprises and give a reliable path to restore the system.

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Member Avatar for Dani

It will wipe out all of your personal files, customized settings, and software you have installed. It will be a fresh installation of Windows XP as if you had just bought your computer. Are you sure this is something you need to do? What errors are you getting that prompted yu to run Windows XP repair?

Member Avatar for alc6379

Just to drive the point home, a clean installation of Windows removes EVERYTHING. You'll even have to reinstall your drivers, if they're not native to Windows. Just something to keep in mind as you proceed.

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