Right guys, after by recent problem, I've decided to format my computer, so i can start afresh.

Could you give me step by step instructions on doing this?

Thanks.Joe.

have you tought about doing a repair instalation instead?

How do you perform a reinstallation of Windows XP, sometimes called a repair installation?

Configure your computer to start from the CD-ROM drive. For more information about how to do this, refer to your computer's documentation or contact your computer manufacturer. Then insert your Windows XP Setup CD, and restart your computer.

1. When the Press any key to boot from CD message is displayed on your screen, press a key to start your computer from the Windows XP CD.

2. Press ENTER when you see the message To setup Windows XP now, and then press ENTER displayed on the Welcome to Setup screen.

3. Do not choose the option to press R to use the Recovery Console.

4. In the Windows XP Licensing Agreement, press F8 to agree to the license agreement.

5. Make sure that your current installation of Windows XP is selected in the box, and then press R to repair Windows XP.

6. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete Setup.

yes..... the above steps are usefull... you havent stated if you have a windows disc (retail usually custom pcs) or a system restore discs (manufacterd computers hp-compaq-advent) this will help thanks also if your formating a custom pc wich you use for gaming you should seek advice about how to format for optimal gaming performance and general performance boosters

Well, im back now guys, short trip away.

Erm, yes I have the Windows XP installation disk, which i believe to be the correct cd.

I have the common problem at the moment, which is the 'C:\System32\config\system corrupt or deleted' , so would the above explanation solve that?

If your XP CD is a retail Microsoft disk you can try this first:

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=307545

If that doesn't help then a Repair Install should:

http://michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

If you still want a Clean Install here is a good guide for that:

http://michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html


If your CD is a Recovery Disk from a manufacturer e.g. Dell; HP; etc. you will need to follow the manufacturers instructions for Recovery options.


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