windows xp re-install

[Guest]

I had to recently re-install my xp with service pack 2, i used my original cd
with service pack 1 and installed over the existing installation, now I can't
access the information in my old accounts, or applications i had installed

 

[Shenan Stanley]

I had to recently re-install my xp with service pack 2, i used my
original cd with service pack 1 and installed over the existing
installation, now I can't access the information in my old accounts,
or applications i had installed

In order to reinstall an SP1 version over and SP2, it had to be a
parallel/clean install.. Of course that would mean you have to install
everything else as well - there is no "easy way" around that. You also need
to repatch, reinstall drivers, etc.

However, if you just cannot get to your old profiles and need the files
there and the message is someting along the lines of "Access Denied":

As long as EFS is not involved:

How to Take Ownership of a File or Folder in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=308421

How to disable simplified sharing & set permissions
on a shared folder in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=307874

--

=- Shenan -=<
=- MS MVP -=<

--
The information above is intended to assist you; however, it is
suggested you research for yourself before you take any advice - you
are the one ultimately responsible for your actions/problems/solutions.
Whenever possible, the advice will include the method/places used in
compiling the answer. Also, questions may have been asked to clarify
your situation OR to give you an idea of where to look - do not dismiss
them lightly.

 

[Tim]

If you didn't elect to delete anything during the install then chances are
you will have the following:

Old files still on disc - Open the "Documents and Settings" folder by going
to C: and look through the folders there. You may see duplicated folder
names with suffixes on - look in the older folders.

No other S/W installed - you have effectively reset windows knowledge of all
installed apps so you will have to install again.

A good method to use is to use the Start -> Search and search for files by
type EG *.doc will find all word documents etc. You can also search by
creation date and other methods. Note that most windows files have specific
dates or are 'quite old' so you can rapidly find most things. Once you find
things you wan tback, you can just drag and drop them to where they belong
now.

HTH
- Tim