i want to install windows 2000 pro on a cleanly formatted HDD. When i run setup.exe from the A: prompt it says "this program cannot be run from dos." How can i install it?

Change options in your BIOS to boot from the CD-ROM.

There is no setup.exe in windows 2000 (or XP or NT). In order to begin the installation you must go into the \i386 folder on the CD and type winnt. For information on switches associated with this command type winnt /?

Curt has the answer more or less...lol. Remeber to make the partition "active" first, believe me it's the simple things that'll give ya headaches. I installed a OS and forgot to mark it active, and I couldn't figure out what I was missing until after my 5th install. Remember to mark it as active. Also, you wouldn't have been able to run setup.exe even if they had one, 'cause you were at the A:\ and not the C:\.

You could always clean install your old O/S the update with Win2k..... It takes a little longer than one install but it may be quicker than running round in circles trying to find out other ways! Regards

Well, I am getting the same error, but I do not have an option to boot to CDRom in the bios utility. I tried upgrading my Presario 5686 bios, but I still do not have the boot order option. I am baffled. I have formatted my C: drive, killed the partitioning, and want to have pretty much nothing to do with the original set up of the machine. I created a boot floppy before I formatted the C: drive. I have an additional drive, which has no OS on it. Also, in another thread someone mentioned the i386 directory, but I do not have this on my Win2K Profissional CD...? So, how can I install an OS... from a CD...?

Use the W2K (4) setup floppies to boot and run/access the CD and thus setup. They can be made via the "makeboot" util (or whatever it's called) on the CD - from within any installed/functioning OS. Or you can download them from: http://www.bootdisk.com Probably go to the w0rm link (it's OK...) These are images - best saved to a HD; then self expand each to a floppy (logically you need 4 formatted floppies). The 4 setup floppies enable acces to the CDROM etc; then you can either start a fresh install; or go the Repair or Upgrade routes.