Reinstalling Windows, Starting from scrtach

I hope this post is ok in this forum.

I'm thinking about just starting my windows system all over brand new from the very begining. The only problem is that I don't know how to clear everything off the computer to make sure it is spic and span. Is there a walkthrough guide anywhere that i can use to do this? I just want to make sure it gets clean. I want it like it was when I pulled it out of the box.

Thanks!
Randall

 

Here is the MS instructions for a clean install of XP. (You didn't state your OS)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/316941

 

Hello all,
I have previously used instructions found at the link below to do installations of both XP Pro and Home, while they seem a bit overwhelmimg at first, the installation itself is fairly cut and dry. Hope it helps a little.
Bug
http://www.tweakhound.com/xp/installxp/installXP1.htm

 

Sorry, for not providing more info on my system. I'm pretty flusterd right now dealing w/ this stupid computer and all its problems.
Any how its running Windows XP Home.
I have another question. I don't have a "windows xp" disk. I do have all the disks that came w/ the system though.Its a Dell system. Would these be what I need? There are 4 or 5 of them. (I'm not at home now so cant be too sure).
Wouldn't they have everything on them to start all over again to "new out of the box condition"? It seems I've either reinstalled or repared windows w/ them before but am not positive.
I'm just scared that I may delete my system and not get it reinstalled again. Do I need to worry about this?

Thank You Very Much Guys, Ya'll Are Life Savers!!!
Randall

 

Hi Randall, you should have mentioned the Dell from the start.
I understand Dell America are not so helpful with the recovery so here is some advice that recently helped someone in Virginia to a full reinstaal of their Dell.

Firstly locate two Dell disks labelled
recovery disk - operating system disk 1
recovery disk drivers and utilities. disk2
You will have other disks as well but only need these if you have extra cards or modems in the beast.
You must have these, for the new install to work. Disk 1 is the Windows disk, Dell style.

Second make sure you have the Windows key on a label somewhere on the case. Copy the key somewhere handy to input later.

You haven't said if you have broadband or modem. Neither will work after installation until you have installed the Dell drivers. However the good news is that 99% of Dells do not need product activation after installation.

I have a attached a text file with detailed instructions. Post if you need further help.

 

Seems I can't attach twice so read this thread as well.

http://forums.majorgeeks.com/showthread.php?t=121636

The instructions (install.txt) are in post #17

Studio T

 

Oh my gosh!! that is awsome, I know I have those. You are a life saver. Thank You very very very much!!!!!!!!!!!!

Randall

 

I was hoping I wouldn't be one of these people. But...
It says to boot from the black CD. Can I assume that is disk #1. I don't have a black cd, they are chrome kinda.

Thanks Again!
Randall

 

Dell have issued them in all sorts of colors, purple, brown, blue, black and I suppose chrome.

PM me with a US land line no if you want to talk through it.

Studio T

 

I'll PM you if I need too. I strongly believe its the disk #1.
And again I just want to say thank you for helping me out its very much appriciated.

Randall