How To Repair Windows XP from a Boot CD

The boot CD that comes with your computer can be used as many times as you want.You do a repair install.Everything that has been done will keep the documents and files on the computer.Follow the guide to do a repair install.

Step 1: You can insert the CD into the computer.

If you don't have a copy of the CD, you can download an.iso from the internet and burn it to a blank CD.You will still need a valid Product Key to install if you are aware of viruses.

Step 2: You should make a note of your product key.

Before you start the install process, you should have this handy.You have to enter a code in order to install Windows.It can be found on the back of the case or in one of a couple different places.It was attached to your computer.The back of the tower is where it is usually located.The laptop is on the bottom.

Step 3: Your computer needs to be rebooted.

Make sure the CD is in the correct location.First, you need to set your computer to boot from the CD drive.You will have to enter the setup in order to do this.The Setup button can be hit if your computer has a manufacturer's logo on it.The key can be either F2, F10, F12, or Del.The logo and the correct key will be displayed on the same screen.You can navigate to the boot menu once you are in the bios.The CD drive should be set as the 1st boot device.This could be called the DVD drive, the optical drive or the CD/DVD drive.If you want to save your changes, exit the BIOS.The computer will restart.

Step 4: Start the installation.

When the manufacturer's screen disappears, a message will appear that says "Press any key to boot from CD..."If you don't press a key, the computer will boot from the hard drive.

Step 5: The setup will load.

The setup process requires drivers to be loaded.This could take some time.The Welcome screen will greet you once it is complete.To begin the repair install, press Enter.Do not go to the recovery console.

Step 6: Take the time to read the agreement.

Hit F8 to agree and continue after you've gone over the license agreement.A list of your Windows installs will be loaded by setup.Most users will only see one thing here.

Step 7: You can choose your previous installation.

If you only have one install, it will be highlighted.The repair process can be started by pressing R.After copying files, Windows will restart the computer.The repair install will begin.You will be asked to confirm the date and time as well as a few other questions.The default option is usually acceptable.

Step 8: The product key needs to be entered.

You will be asked to enter a product key at the end of the installation.Before proceeding, Windows will check to make sure it is a valid key.You have to authorize your copy of Windows online or over the phone after installation.When you log into your repaired copy, the product activation wizard will appear.If you have an internet connection, you should be able to verify your copy by clicking a button.

Step 9: You should check your programs.

You will be taken to your repaired install once the installation is complete.Some of your installed programs may need to be reinstalled because certain system files were replaced.It is possible that some of your devices need to have their drivers reinstalled.Click My Computer if you want to see which devices are not installed correctly.Click the device manager if you want to select the Hardware Tab.If there are devices with a yellow exclamation point, they may need their drivers reinstalled.Personal data and documents should not be damaged during a repair install.Make sure everything is where it should be.