How to reinstall XP and not lose old settings

[John Williams]

My pc crashed with a registry problem and I'm needing to
reinstall Windows XP Pro over this old installation and
not lose the installed software I have.

I have done this before, but can't remember how. I know
I booted up with the Windows XP CD and then thought I did
something with the Repair or Recovery console. By
choosing 'R' for Repair that carries me to the DOS
looking screen and that's not where I did it from last
time.

Can someone tell me how to do this again.

Thanks!

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

John;
Repair Installation:
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/tips/xp_repair_install.htm
Windows Updates will need to be reinstalled.
Data should be safe, back-up important data just in case.
Install Service Pack first and by itself.
Then install ALL Critical Updates no more than 4 at a time,

Disconnect the network/modem cable before starting repair and do NOT
reconnect the cable until repair is completed and firewall is
installed/enabled.
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=283673