Way To Install XP Pro, Without Formatting or Partitioning???

[JokerJKNY]

Hey all,

it seems that whenever i try to install my computer's OEM copy of XP Pro ontop of XP Pro, i'm always asked to create new partitions and the like. is this really necessary? is there a work around of some sort?

should i buy the "upgrade" version? would that give me the option of NOT formatting or partitioning?

 

[iam29a]

I wouldn't think it would be necessary, but remember as you are using the full version its assuming no other OS is present. What is strange, though, is that it normally should detect the previously-installed version and prompt for Repair of that previously installed copy.

Are you just trying to save time formatting during the new install, trying to keep from losing data, or something else?

 

[Lord Evermore]

Just because you're prompted to do it doesn't mean you have to. You can select an existing partition and say to install on the same one, though you'll get warnings about the existing installation probably. Setup lists all partitions in order to give you the option of installing to an existing partition, or deleting some, or creating new ones.

I don't think it's a good thing that this is such a problem that you can say "whenever I try to install" XP, indicating it happens a lot.

 

[mboy]

U should have 3 options when installing. Install fresh copy, Do a repair install or Run recovery console.

I assume you are booting to the CD and not just putting the cd in after your current install of XP has booted right?