Curiously, many find that the cheapest generic CD-Rs work best. Always check the 'burned' data before moving forward to make sure everything is OK. (Open or Explore the CD for confirmation)
Clean Install XP?
Several guides to the process out there:
http://www.theelderg..._windows_xp.htm
http://www.michaelst...nxpinstall.html
http://www.winsupers...xp_sg_clean.asp
Take a little time to read up before you start.
Since it is one of those things that must be seen all the way through, it is important to think about the end at the beginning.
•Is all my data saved?
•Do I have good copies of all my drivers?
http://www.majorgeek...ad.php?det=3982
http://www.softpedia...le-Driver.shtml
You computer manufacturer will also have all the drivers for your computer available on the website somewhere unless you have customized your hardware.
•Do I have 'setup' (install) files of my firewall, anti-virus, and anti-spyware burned to CD so I can install them before connecting to the net the first time? (and also your favorite alternative browser?-did you save your 'bookmarks' to a CD as well?)
•Is my XP CD a service pack 2 version? if you have SP2 installed, a SP1 or earlier CD may refuse to work on the grounds that the installed version is mre advanced. If this is the case for you, the best answer is to create a "slipstreamed" XPCD.
For this we use 'Autostreamer.' Looks difficult, turns out to be straightforward.
http://www.softpedia...ostreamer.shtml
http://www.simplygui...ostreamer.shtml (I did this myself)
To burn the .iso file to bootable disc you will need an advanced tool like Nero. I used a free one: http://www.majorgeek...wnload4055.html
•Do I have my XP license key code? Belarc will display it for you, along with codes for all your software: http://www.belarc.co...e_download.html
•Is my computer set to boot from the CD?
This is a BIOS change. For access, watch the very first screen that displays when starting the computer. A short message will briefly display at the top: "Press (*) for setup. (*) is whatever key your computer uses. Mine is F2. Your mouse won't work there. On screen instructions will explain how to navigate with the keyboard. Change the Boot Order so that the CDROM drive is at the top. No other changes should be made without good reason and understanding, OK?
Best practice for the procedure is to completely disconnect the machine from everything during the process.
Folks often miss the chance to 'delete' the original partition before format. Make sure that you take that step as well. Delete at least the 'system partition,' fully format NTFS, and install. Follow the on-screen prompts, enter the code when asked, and activate right away.
It may be necessary to phone Microsoft for activation. This is not uncommon. Just be yourself, explain that you had really bad malware and had to re-format on the exact same machine. They will give you a 30 digit one-time code to enter into your computer, and Done.
Then you will nedd to go to Windows Update and get all the patches since SP2 (about 60) It will be much better to do it manually than relying on "Automatic Updates." I actually suggest that you turn "Automatic Update" off in the System entry of Control Panel before connecting to the net to avoid doubling. You are going to want to allow the full resources of your system to be dedicated to this update process, so make it a single project. Read a book or something...
Do let me know how things work out for you. If you'd like assistance with configuring your system after the fresh install just click my name and send me a personal message. I continue to be at your service to the best of my ability. Anytime.
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