If you are considering reinstalling the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver, use System Restore to return your

operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver.

NOTICE:

Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary hard drive. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary

hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.

To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:

Dell Operating System CD

Dell Drivers and Utilities CD

NOTE:

The Dell Drivers and Utilities CD contains drivers that were factory-installed during assembly of the computer. Use the Drivers and Utilities CD to

load any required drivers, including those drivers required if your computer has a redundant array of independent disks (RAID) controller.

Product Key (Product ID Number) ____________________

NOTE:

The Product Key is the bar code number on the sticker that is located on the external side cover of your computer. You may be prompted for the

Product Key when using the Operating System CD under certain conditions.

Reinstalling Windows XP

To reinstall Windows XP, perform all the steps in the following sections in the order in which they are listed.

The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus

protection program, and other software.

NOTICE:

The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed

on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless instructed to do so by a Dell technical support representative.

NOTICE:

To prevent conflicts with Windows XP, disable any virus protection software installed on your computer before you reinstall Windows XP. See

the documentation that came with the software for instructions.

Booting From the Operating System CD

1. Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.

2. Insert the Operating System CD. If any program starts automatically, exit the program before proceeding.

3. Shut down the computer through the Start menu and restart the computer.

4. Press <F12> immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.

If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again.

5. Press the arrow keys to select CD-ROM, and then press <Enter>.

6. When the Press any key to boot from CD message appears, press any key.

Windows XP Setup

1. When the Windows XP Setup screen appears, press <Enter> to select To set up Windows now.

2. Read the information on the Microsoft Windows Licensing Agreement screen, and press <F8> to accept the license agreement.

3. If your computer already has Windows XP installed and you want to recover your current Windows XP data, type r to select the repair option, and then

remove the CD from the drive.

identifying

drivers,

creating a restore

point, and

resolving software and hardware

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