Windows XP uninstalling XP2pack and re-installing-advice please

[Bawcom]

Hi everyone,

I'm editing this and have no idea whether or not you will just see this message or my original and then this message as the original (I believe) was already posted. But I wished to add to questions two and three that bbesides the programs listed below, I also have the SBC Yahoo 2 Wire-so again is there something I should save with regard to installing this?

First, please forgive this long missive. It seems the only way to try to correct my 'low connectivity' problem and no wireless problem is to uninstall and then re-install the OP (and believe me I have tried everything-The wireless card, BTW is fine). Anyway, I'm a bit nervous about doing this for the first time and would very much appreciate your expert advice.

So the removal seems pretty straightforward.
Question 1: For re-installation I have the disc called Operating System CD-but for the life of me can not find the code-product key (unless it's the one typed on the back that begins :CDX0S followed by 5 numbers). Could that be it? If not, is it some place in one of my files?

Question 2: I also have the following: Norton Internet Security, Power Chute (surge control), PDF Converter 2, HP DeskJet Software, Application and Driver Recovery DVD, and then on-line stuff: Registry Mechanic, and Adware SE Personal. In which order would you suggest this be re-installed. Am I missing anything important that you can think of (besides my mind, of course)?

Question 3: I have a 4GB memory stick, is there anything besides My Documents that you would suggest saving? (I have already saved Internet Favorites).

Question 4: I use Yahoo for my e-mail. That won't be affected will it? I mean I won't lose my folders (like I did with Outlook), will I? If so where do I go to save them?

Thank you kind sirs and madams in advance.
Linda

 

[Adywebb]

If you are sure you need to re-install your OS then:

1. You can find your XP key by using Jellybean Key finder HERE. Also have a look at this very helpful Windows Re-install Tutorial site HERE, and it will guide you.

2. Firstly get all the latest device drivers for your system via the various makers websites and save them on Floppy/CD/DVD.
After the re-install put all the device drivers back on, then install your AV/Firewall first before going on the web and updating your OS.
Then add and update the rest of your programs - I would also consider a better AV than Norton as well!!

3/4. You can save your Outlook settings and folders by using the import/export feature and saving the files to your stick.
As Yahoo mail is web-based, you will not lose anything - just remember your email/password to get back in.

Hope this helps

PS. No doubt some others here will have a few other different ideas and methods as well

 

[Bawcom]

Re-installing -a few more questions

Hi, I keep getting an error message that says this message is too short, so I'm just going to add this first line and see if that solves the problem.

If you are sure you need to re-install your OS then:
First, thank you so very much for your helpful reply which has led to a few more questions.

1. You can find your XP key by using Jellybean Key finder HERE. Also have a look at this very helpful Windows Re-install Tutorial site HERE, and it will guide you. In Jellybean, there does not seem to be a link to click on to download the keyfinder. In the tutorial, there is a page that discusses repairing Windows XP-would it be worth it to try to do this first?

2. Firstly get all the latest device drivers for your system via the various makers websites and save them on Floppy/CD/DVD.
After the re-install put all the device drivers back on, then install your AV/Firewall first before going on the web and updating your OS.
Then add and update the rest of your programs - I would also consider a better AV than Norton as well!! Uhm, could you give me an example of which device drivers (the only drivers I know about are the ones for my internet connection) I would want to get the lastest of? What AV would you recommend? Should I have another CD for Office or is that in the OS? And lastly, the CD I have says OSCD XP Home SP2-now I'm wondering if that is just the two pack or it's all in one. I have another CD for XP, but it could be an old one.

Thanks again!


Hope this helps

PS. No doubt some others here will have a few other different ideas and methods as well

 

[Adywebb]

The reason you get the short error message is you answered within the quote - so it looks like you haven't left a post - just make sure you write your answer outside the quote

1. The Jellybean download is there at the bottom - a series of 'DOWNLOAD' buttons in yellow from various mirror sites.
Yes, you can try a repair first, that will negate losing your settings - however make your file backups first. Often however a repair fails, so be prepared for that.

2. You will need drivers for your graphics/sound etc - right click My Computer>Properties>Hardware>Device Manager and have a look at all the devices on your system - some are provided by XP and will install automatically, however some will need the the manufacturers drivers, go through your devices and see which ones do, then go to their site and get them.
You may also have all the drivers on a CD supplied with the PC, however there may be updated ones available.

You will need to find a seperate CD for the Office suite - if it was pre-loaded on your system, have a look for the software CD.

Your OSCD XP Home SP2 sounds like the correct one - it has SP2 integrated.

Finally, there are many free AV's and firewalls out there which are better and less resource hungry than NIS, have a look at the free home editions of AntiVir/Avast/Zone Alarm/AVG etc.

Good Luck

PS. I am away for Xmas from now till 28th December - any further problems, I'm sure others will help.

 

[Bawcom]

THANK YOU-re-installing

Thank you so very much for your help-it's been so far and above the cut and paste HP chat. Do have a Merry Christmas.
Kindest regards,
Linda