Reloading Windows XP Home

• To reload Windows XP you must have the operating system install disc. Whether you bought XP as an upgrade or it came already installed on the computer when you got it you should have an install disc in your possession. Computers that come with Windows XP pre-installed include an install disc specifically for the purposes of reloading the operating system.
  
  Before moving forward with the XP, reload process be sure to backup any files you wish to keep, as reinstalling the operating system will wipe everything irrecoverably off the computer. When you are ready to move forward with the reloading of XP, insert the install disc and reboot the computer. The computer will automatically read the CD as it reboots, which will then put you at the Windows XP reinstall program instead of the typical startup screen you would normally see.
  
  It's at this point you will be asked how you want to proceed with the reload process. You will want to choose a full reinstall and then click your way through any further menus. You'll be asked to confirm if you wish to clear all data on the hard drive and reload the entire operating system as well. Once the reloading process begins it can take quite a bit of time, as it has to first format the hard drive and then reload all the necessary files and settings pertaining to Windows XP.
  
  Once it finishes the computer will automatically reboot and you will find yourself back at the Windows XP welcome screen that you likely saw the first time you bought your computer or installed XP.
  
  

Reloading Additional Settings

• Part of the reloading process with Windows XP involves removing any drivers and updates you may have installed in the past. Because reloading XP reverts the computer back to its basic form and only reinstalls files specifically pertaining to the main computer hardware and the operating system itself, you will find that you need to reinstall various individual drivers to get certain components to work properly. These components that may need driver installs and updates include Internet network cards, audio and video cards and peripherals, such as printers. In addition, any settings you once had will need to be reset as reloading XP reverts these settings to their default.