reinstall

I want to re-install XP but when I put the disc in I get a message that Windows can't install because the Xp version on the PC is a newer than the disc but it is the same disc as the original install. Is it because the PC has SP 1-2 on

 

Are you putting in the cd, then restarting the computer so the computer will boot off the cd?
Then, there should be prompts for you to format and install...
Make sure in bios you are booting from CD drive then hard drive.

 

Yes.
You can either remove any SP that isn't on your disc (if you can see them in Add/Remove programs), or create a Slipstreamed copy of your CD. For this, read the following. I have put a link to this article below. You will need to go there to see how to create a slipstreamed CD.

Setup cannot continue because the version of Windows on your computer is newer than the version on the CD.
If you get a "Setup cannot continue because the version of Windows on your computer is newer than the version on the CD." message, if you continue, you will need to apply the SP 2 updates after the repair install completes, plus you will need to take the following steps to keep your system from being immediately infected with a virus.
1. If you connect directly to the internet without a router or hardware firewall, disconnect from the internet by physically removing the connections cable, removing a wireless card, or any other means of internet connection.
2. After the Repair install is completed, enable the XP firewall or install third party firewall software or router before connecting to the internet.
If you get the "Setup cannot continue because the version of Windows on your computer is newer than the version on the CD.". You should create a slipstreamed copy of your XP CD by using the software and step by steps supplied in the links below.



The above comes from this link, and towards the bottom of that site you will find links to slipstreaming instructions.
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

 

Thanks I will have a look at the link you sent before I go any farther

 

Have also seen that message because of quite a few Updates for Windows XP that had been installed after the original installation.