In Win ME, I can re-install Windows without losing all the data on the HDD, using Windows\options\cabs\setup.exe. Is there anything like this for Win XP?. Tomg

Tomg44, perhaps repair rather than reinstall? So long as you don't format, all your goodies are still around. HTH. Ed in Texas.

Install your Windows XP CD. When you do, there should be a window to pop up that gives you the option to install XP. When it asks you what kind of installation to do, click upgrade. Either that, or just do as was suggested in the above reply. See here for more info on doing a repair install: http://www.windowsxphome.windowsrei... WinSimple Software CompTIA A+ Certified

How to Perform a Repair Installation

Follow this step: Set your first boot device in the Bios to CD-Rom. Insert your Windows XP CD, save the bios settings and exit. Soon "Press any key to boot of CD" will appear on the screen, hit the space bar to continue. Now setup will inspect your hardware and software, it then will load various files required for the repair. Just wait and be patient, this may take a few moments. Soon a menu will appear (as pictured below), press enter to continue. Now the "End User Agreement" Press "F8" if you agree, "ESC" if you don't. You will now have to select the installation you wish to repair. Usually there is only one, but sometimes, there may be 2 or more (i.e. you have done a parallel install to resolve a problem), use the up/down arrow key to select the install, and then press "R" to continue. Setup will now examine the disk be patient, it can take a few minutes. Setup will go through a percentage - 1 to 100% A screen will soon appear. Press "F3" to continue Now setup will reboot system, wait 15 seconds or just press enter. Now it is time to see if this has solved your problems.