I have a computer that is 3 yrs old and i never had to reinstall XP.
It runs fine mostly all the time.
If it messes up, that is usually the fault of me.
Can't tell you how to reinstall Windows but the MVP's and the one's that
have done it certainly can tell you how to do it.
All I know is that a clean install sets up your computer like the day you
turned it on the first time.
To keep my computer running, I use Norton systemworks 2005 and Webroot
Window washer.
I have never had a problem with Norton cleaning up my registry and other
problems that might arise.
I really don't have a problem letting Systemworks cleanout my computer.
the program I use the most is Goback.
Goback is part of systemworks.
I used goback when SM6 corrupted the way Microsoft Money 2003 Deluxe would
try to start up.
Goback fixed the problem in about 4 minutes.
If I update or install a program, I write down the time and if the computer
doesn't perform correctly, I use Goback to restore my computer to a point
when it did work fine.
Window Washer just simply cleans my computer and it does it fast.
No ill effects with either program.
Now SM6, no tech response as of now but I cautiously use each module.
The modules I use the most is the memory recovery module and start up
programs module.
With the start up module, I learned that some start up programs can't be
disabled or deleted.
I didn't know that til using SM6.
It has graphics that tell you which startups are necessary and not
necessary.
It gives a ton of information on startups.
No more guessing or disabling the startup programs one by one.
Just be careful which modules you use and try them one at a time.
Just like Microsoft updates: 908531 and 911567, they can cause more trouble
than good.
Be cautious with SM6.
Just a thought!!!!!!!!
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html