need direction for formatting

I'm thinking of formatting my pc. I think making a boot disk would be a good idea. Any answers?

 

I don't have my OS cd. My ex-husband won't give it to me lol. But, my computer does have the windows xp sticker with the cd key on it. I have a couple of cd writing programs but neither offers a free booting cd option.

 

ok thanks I will try to ask him for the cd. If that doesnt work i will try the cd program. Thanks bunches!

 

If it helps,
it is possible to create a new install CD off your existing installation:
http://www.howtohaven.com/system/createwindowssetupdisk.shtml

I have done this and it works.
Although, it may not be the best idea if you are formatting to remove a virus / malware as some of your system files could have been compromised.
It would probably pay to run the directions in the Malware forum as per this post to be sure:
http://forums.majorgeeks.com/showthread.php?t=35407