xp reinstall

[lbhskier37]

My windows xp install got screwed up and I need to reinstall it. I can still get into xp, I dont want to reformat cause I have a ton of stuff I want to save. I am going to try to install by copying the i386 directory to my hdd and running winnt32 right from windows. I i do new install, will it replace my old windowsxp? This is what I want. Will it clear everything off my hard drive? I have one folder just in my c: drive that I need to save. It says files may be lost, will this folder be lost if i just install like this?

 

[johnlog]

You should be able to reinstall XP over the original installatin and it may fix whatever problems you are having. You do not have to reformat your HD to do that and you won't have to reinstall your programs.

Might not work all the time but it is worth a try. Your saved data should remain intact also.

 

[MTDEW]

Usually installing an os overtop of itself leaves all user files & programs intact.

Sometimes programs wont run though cuz the registry entries are missing. ie:games etc...

I usually just reinstall the program or game overtop of itself then it works fine & i rarely lose any saved data in the program.

Sometimes the program / game doesnt appear on the start menu either, reinstalling the program overtop of itself solves this too.
Or you can find the programs .exe file & make a shortcut to the desktop or start menu to use it easily.

 

[Allanv]

I thought XP was like 2000 if you set it up again and choose repair ?? maybe i was wrong

 

[MTDEW]

Allanv, is right, just set it up using the repair option.
Itll be an option when you boot off of the winxp cd, dont know about when you have files copied to your hd & install from there, but Id assume its the same.

Forgot about that, Im still using WinMe on 2 outta my 3 pcs.

Do you really only need the i386 directory copied to your hd for install?

I wasnt sure what files to copy to my hd with WinXP, so I booted & installed from the cd.

Id Much rather do it from the hd also.