This is often an easy fix for complicated Windows issues.
This 19-step guide will walk you through every part of the repair installation.
That means if there’s anything you want to keep, you should back it uppriorto beginning this process.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 1 of 19.Tim Fisher
Also, check these folders under other user’s accounts if more than one person logs onto your PC.
You should also locate the Windows XPproduct key, a 25-digit alphanumeric code unique to your copy of Windows.
Once you see it, press a key to force the computer to boot from the Windows CD.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 2 of 19.Tim Fisher
If this happens, simply reboot and venture to boot to the CD again.
The instructions that came with your hard drive or computer should include this information.
For most users, though, this step can be ignored.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 3 of 19.Tim Fisher
PressEnterto set up Windows now.
Even though the second option isto repair a Windows XP installation, theRecovery Consoleisn’t the option we want.
We choose to truly perform a complete repair installation a few steps from now.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 4 of 19.Tim Fisher
Read and Accept the Licensing Agreement
The next screen that appears is theWindows XP Licensing Agreementscreen.
Read through the agreement and pressF8to confirm that you agree with the terms.
Press thePage Downkey to advance through the licensing agreement faster.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 5 of 19.Tim Fisher
This isn’t to suggest you should skip reading the agreement, though!
You should always read “small print” especially when it comes to operating systems and other software.
The single installation of Windows on your PC should already be highlighted.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 6 of 19.Tim Fisher
Since we want torepair the selected Windows XP installation, pressRto continue.
This usually only takes a few seconds and no user intervention is necessary.
No data files like word processor files, spreadsheet files, music files, photos, etc.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 7 of 19.Tim Fisher
should be deleted during this process.
Only system files that Windows XP is able to restore are being deleted.
This step usually only takes a few minutes and no user intervention is necessary.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 8 of 19.Tim Fisher
Windows XP Repair Installation Begins
Windows XP will now begin installing.
No user intervention is necessary.
Usually, the time here is an exaggeration.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 9 of 19.Tim Fisher
Windows will probably be set up sooner than this.
Choose Regional and Language Options
During installation, theRegional and Language Optionswindow will appear.
The first section allows you to change the default language and the default location.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 10 of 19.Tim Fisher
If the options listed match your preferences, no changes are necessary.
If you wish to make changes, selectCustomizeand follow the directions given to install new languages or change locations.
The second section allows you to change the default Windows input language and unit.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 11 of 19.Tim Fisher
If the options listed match your preferences, no changes are necessary.
After you’ve made any changes, or if you’ve determined no changes are necessary, selectNext.
If you’re on a internet, enter theworkgroupname of that internet here.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 12 of 19.Tim Fisher
Otherwise, feel free to leave the default workgroup name and continue.
you could always change this later once you’re logged in.
Wait for the Windows XP Repair Installation to Finalize
The Windows XP repair installation will now finalize.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 14 of 19.Tim Fisher
No user intervention is necessary.
Otherwise, chooseNo, not at this time, and selectNext.
If this is the case, just proceed to the next step.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 15 of 19.Tim Fisher
You must enter at least one name, but can enter up to five here.
More users can be entered from within Windows XP after the repair installation is complete.
After entering the account name(s), selectNextto continue.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 16 of 19.Tim Fisher
Finish Final Setup of Windows XP
We’re almost there!
All the necessary files are installed and all the necessary options are configured.
SelectFinishto proceed to Windows XP.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 17 of 19.Tim Fisher
Wait for Windows XP to Start
Windows XP is now loading.
This may take a minute or two, depending on your box’s speed.
Windows XP Reinstallation is Complete!
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 18 of 19.Tim Fisher
This completes the final step of reinstalling Windows XP!
This is a necessary step to ensure that your repaired installation of Windows is secure and up to date.
Windows XP Repair Install - Step 19 of 19.Tim Fisher
