Repairing/reinstalling WIN XP

I have to reinstall/repair the OS on my machine and I seem to recall a link to a page with a how to guide as I recall the Windows method isn't recommended.

If anyone has a clue or can offer the steps I would be gratefull. I would like to get the data off my machine before I do a complete install. I am having some serious boot issues and I fear the only way out is a full reinstall but I need to save my data first.

Cheers and thanks

Gord

PS In case you are wondering, my machine will not boot normally, freezes half way thru the boot when after it displays the desktop. Will run OK in SAFE mode under the ADMIN profile but not under my profile. Thing is, I can't write anything to the DVD in SAFE mode unless you can tell me how to get it write to the DVD in SAFE mode.

 

OH yeah, if do try the Repair Console method it asks for my ADMIN password. I have never used an ADMIN password as this is my machine and I didnt want to risk forgeting it.\

How do I get around the ADMIN password or find out what it is?

 

You don't get around the Repair Console asking for an ADMIN Password. Every NT based computer has an "Administrator Account'. If you didn't password the Admininstrator Account, then just hit enter as most likely the passwaord is blank.

 

2 things to try:
From Safe Mode, try a System Restore to a point before your troubles began.
Start >All Programs >Accessories >System Tools >System Restore >Restore my computer to an earlier time. You will lose anything done on your system from the point you choose to the present.

Or ... Repair Install.
Install http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm
See these pages too: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/kb/315341 http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;Q315341&ID=KB;EN-US;Q315341

Happy trailz,