Windows XP FAQ

  1. What are the minimum requirements to install XP?
    "What are the minimum requirements to install XP?"
    1. PC with 300 megahertz (MHz) or higher processor clock speed recommended; 233-MHz minimum required; Intel Pentium/Celeron family, AMD K6/Athlon/Duron family or compatible processor recommended
    2. 128 megabytes (MB) of RAM or higher recommended (64 MB minimum supported; may limit performance and some features))
    3. 1.5 gigabyte (GB) of available hard disk space.
    4. Super VGA (800 × 600) or higher resolution video adapter and monitor
    5. CD-ROM or DVD drive
    6. Keyboard and Microsoft Mouse or compatible pointing device
    Additional information

  2.   How do I format a NTFS, Fat/Fat32 drive with XP installed?
    "How do I format a NTFS, FAT/FAT32 drive with XP installed?"
    • Identify the file system that you are using. To do this, follow these steps:
    1. Double-click My Computer on the desktop or from Explorer right click the My Computer Icon.
    2. Right-click the disk that you want and then click Properties.
    3. Look for the File System entry.
    • If the disk is formatted in NTFS If the disk is formatted in NTFS, your options for returning to Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows Me are limited. The Win 9X based operating systems do not read or recognize NTFS and you cannot convert the disk to use the FAT or FAT32 file system. The bootable disk that you use and the drive on which you want to install Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows Me cannot use NTFS. Microsoft does not support any third-party solutions for converting NTFS to FAT or FAT32.
    • If the drive is using the FAT file system If the drive is using the FAT file system, you can install any Windows operating system.
      On a drive using the FAT32 file system, you can install Windows 95 OEM Service Release 2 (OSR2) or later.

    Different scenarios:
  3. How do I remove XP and install Win9X/Me?
    "How do I remove XP and install Win9X/Me?"
    Purchased with XP preinstalled
    If your computer was purchased with XP preinstalled
    If your computer was purchased with XP preinstalled, you should consult your OEM for information on support when changing the OS. This will also apply to any extended service or support contracts purchased with the computer.
    If you upgraded
    If you upgraded and saved the uninstall files
     If you upgraded and saved the uninstall files and did not change any hard drive partitions, [ i.e. convert to NTFS from fat 32, add hard drive or partition ] you should have the option to uninstall XP from the Control Panel; Add/Remove utility. Identify the file system

    • Identify the file system that you are using. To do this, follow these steps:
    1. Double-click My Computer on the desktop or Explorer.
    2. Right-click the disk that you want and then click Properties.
    3. Look for the File System entry.
    • If the disk is formatted in NTFS, your options for returning to Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows Me are limited. Those operating systems do not read or recognize NTFS and you cannot convert the disk to use the FAT or FAT32 file system. The bootable disk that you use and the drive on which you want to install Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows Me cannot use NTFS. Microsoft does not support any third-party solutions for converting NTFS to FAT or FAT32.
    • If the drive is using the FAT file system, you can install any operating system. If the drive is using the FAT32 file system, you can install Windows 95 OEM Service Release 2 (OSR2) or later.

    Then click on the configuration below to select the removal options.
       
    • When XP is installed using NTFS file system
    Remove XP and Install Win 98/Me when
    XP is installed using NTFS file system
    Use a Windows 98/Me startup disk to delete the non-dos partition.
    Check for specialized boot disks.
    1. Boot from Startup Disk.
    2. Load FDISK by typing "fdisk.exe" at the "A" prompt without the quotes.
    3. Say yes to large disk support  <Y-N>...........? [Y]  ENTER
    4. Enter choice #3 to "Delete partition or Logical Dos Drive"   Press ESC to return to FDISK options
    5. Enter #4 to "Delete Non-DOS Partition". Select the Non-DOS partition by typing the number and then ENTER. Press ESC to return to FDISK options. Note you cannot delete a NON-DOS partition located inside an Extended partition. You can use the DOS utility called delpart from a DOS boot up.
    6. Reboot with startup disk and load FDISK.
    7. Say yes to Large disk support as above.
    8. Enter choice #1 Press ESC to return to FDISK options
    9. When asked if you want to use the maximum size for the partition and make it active, type Y if you want to use the whole drive or N if you want to set a maximum size for the partition.
    10. After accepting the max size or setting the size, reboot.
    11. To install another OS; reboot:  Type format X:  at the A: prompt; where Xis the drive/partition letter designation.
    12. Insert your Win 98/Me CD.
    13.  Reboot from boot disk with CD-Rom support.
    14. Type sys c:
    15. Type X: for CD drive location where X is the CD drive location.
    16. Type setup.exe
    17. Follow setup prompts
    • When XP is installed using Fat/Fat32 file system
    Remove XP and Install Win 98/Me when
    XP is installed using Fat/Fat32 file system
    1. Boot from a Windows 98/Me Startup disk or a boot disk with specialized content.
    2. Type format X:  at the A: prompt; where X is the drive/partition letter designation.
    3.  Insert your Win 98/Me CD.
    4. Reboot from boot disk with CD-Rom support.
    5. Type sys c:
    6. Type X: for CD drive location where X is the CD drive location.
    7. Type setup.exe
    8. Follow setup prompts
    • When XP is installed using Fat/Fat32 file system without formatting
    Remove XP and Install Win 98/Me when
    XP is installed using Fat/Fat32 file system without formatting
    1. This assumes Windows98/Me is presently installed to the C: drive
    2. Boot from Windows 98/Me Startup disk or a boot disk with specialized content. Make sure you have support for CD-ROM.
    3. Type: sys C: You will no longer have access to XP after this command.
    4. Rename the Windows and Program Files.
    5. Type: attrib c:\windows -r -s -h then ENTER
    6. Type: ren c:\windows c:\windows.old then ENTER
    7. Type: attrib c:\progra~1 -r -s -h then ENTER
    8. Type: ren c:\progra~1 c:\prog.old then ENTER
    9. To free up space, the windows folder can be deleted.
    10. Type: deltree windows then ENTER
    11. The following root files can also be deleted by
      Typing: del <file name> then ENTER
      • Boot.ini
      • Ntbootdd.sys
      • Ntdetect.com
      • NTLDR
      • Hiberfil.sys
      • Pagefile.sys
    12. Insert your Win 98/Me CD.
    13. Reboot using a  boot disk with CD-Rom support.
    14. Type X: for CD drive location where X is the CD drive location. then Enter
    15. Type: setup.exe then Enter
    16. Follow setup prompts
    Copying the Win98/9x  folder to the hard and running setup from the Win98/9xfolder is an alternate method of installing.
  4. How do I install from DOS using a Win 98/Me startup disk?
    "How do I install from DOS using a Win 98.Me startup disk?"
    When installing XP from DOS using a Win 98/Me startup disk, you will need to load smartdrv.exe before running setup. Not doing so will result in setup taking an extraordinarily long time to copy the files for setup.
    1. You can obtain a specialized Windows startup disk from HEREwith smartdrv.exe and other useful utilities. Select either the Windows XP System Setup Disk or Boot Disk Essentials disk.
    2. Boot with the special boot disk choosing to load with CD support.
    3. Load smartdrv.exe from the A: prompt by typing smartdrv.exe  then press ENTER .
    4. Change to the CD drive from the A: prompt by typing "CD <CD drive letter>:"  without the " or <> then press ENTER
    5. Type CD i386 from the prompt.
    6. Type winnt.exe press ENTER.
    7. Follow the setup prompts to install Windows XP.

  5. How do I get around the 32 GB limit XP imposes for Fat 32 hard drives?
    "How do I get around the 32 GB limit XP imposes for Fat 32 hard drives?"
    Although I would not recommend creating a Fat 32 hard drive partition larger than 32 GB. Many queries are made and some confusion exists about how to create a Fat 32 drive or partition larger than 32 GB.
    Plain and simple you cannot do it from Windows XP, you will need to partition the  32GB + hard drive using fdisk  from a Win 98/Me startup disk or preferably a custom  boot disk from www.bootdisk.com or Here with all the necessary MS-DOS utilities needed for emergency or hard drive maintenance.
    New Hard Drive
    1. Boot from Startup Disk.
    2. Load FDISK by typing "fdisk.exe" at the "A" prompt without the quotes.
    3. Say yes to large disk support  <Y-N>...........? [Y]  ENTER 
    4. If multiple hard drives and a drive is formatted NTFS you will get this option
    5. The first Fdisk window will look like the example below.
      Click for screen image.
      Create Delete Display Change Active

    6. If you have more than one hard drive, select option # 4 to verify the drive you want to format.
      Fdisk will list your hard drives like the example  below.
      • Drive 1 = Primary Master
      • Drive 2 = Primary Slave
      • Drive 3 = Secondary Master
      • Drive 4 = Secondary Slave
        Drives 1  and 2 will be on the same cable and drives 3 and 4 will be also be
        together.
    7. If this is a new drive, after verifying  the location ; You will need to create the partition. Partitions are created in the following order: Primary -> Extended -> Logical DOS Drives (in the Extended DOS partition).
      If this is your only hard drive , make it the Primary Partition. Only one[1] Primary partition per system is needed. All other drives can be Logical DOS drives in Extended partitions.  Each hard drive with a primary partition will take the next highest letter. Care should be exercised when creating primary hard drives or partitions.  For example, if the first partition on a hard drive is created as a primary the following enumeration would happen.
      Primary Partition
      Extended partition
      drive 1Primary would be C  Logical DOS Drive would be G
      drive 2 Primary Slave would be D  Logical DOS Drive would be H
      drive 3 Secondary Master would be E  Logical DOS Drive would be I
      drive 4 Secondary Slave would be F  Logical DOS Drive would be J
      When you create an Extended partition, the first extended logical DOS drive would take the next available letter. So be aware of your hard drive positioning, as it can have adverse effects on applications that are installed on drives other than the primary drive.
    8. If this is the only drive in the system, you have the choice of breaking it up into manageable partitions or creating one big Fat 32 partition. Answer yes, if you want to use all the space and no if you want to create more partitions.
    9. If this is the only drive in your system and you use all the space, it will automatically be the active partition. If you break it up into manageable chunks, you will need to specify the partition you want to make active. Usually this will be the C:\ drive.
     
  6. How do I "deactivate",  move to another computer or sell a previously activated XP?
    How do I "deactivate", move to another computer or sell a previously activated XP?
    There is no "deactivation" process for XP. If you need to move XP to a new PC or transfer to a new owner, the steps below must be completed.
    1. Remove XP from it's current location.
    2. Install XP on the new PC.
    3. 3.a When setup checks Activation status, setup will detect you are installing on significantly changed hardware. You will receive a message that you have exceeded the allowed installations to install XP and you will be prompted to call the telephone number listed on the screen. This is a toll free call where available. 
    4. Tell the activation center you removed XP from one PC and installed it to another PC in compliance with the EULA. Other than supplying the AC with the 50 digit key, nothing else should or needs to be conveyed. If you did not register, there will not be any record of your personal  identity transmitted during the activation. If  the optional registration was completed, then that information will be transmitted during the activation process.
    5. You will be given a 42 digit key to activate XP on the new PC.
    6. Moving an OEM version of XP or replacing the OEM motherboard with non-OEM is usually not allowed by the OEM EULA, so a call to the activation center will probably disallow activation on the new PC even when removed from the old PC. According to Microsoft©, OEM versions are technically linked to the PC to which they are first installed. Consult the vendor EULA and OEM EULA for exceptions and requirements. I.E. the Dell EULA allows transfer with the motherboard.
    3.a SP1 versions of XP gives a 3 day grace period to activate a previously activated license key. If it has been over 120 days since XP was last activated, you can activate over the internet without making the phone call.

  7. Windows XP additional license pricing
    "Windows XP additional license pricing"
    Additional licenses can be purchased from Microsoft for a modest discount for use with retail XP Pro, Home, upgrade or full CD's . You can usually get a retail boxed version for less than the discounted license.
    Windows XP additional license pricing.
  8. Selling/Transferring License Ownership
    "Selling/Transferring License Ownership"
    The selling or transfer of  license ownership on previously activated XP OS is limited to retail versions only. OEM versions are restricted to the original computer it is installed and sale or transfer must include the computer.
    If you are selling the copy of XP you removed, you will need to sell with all manuals, documentation, etc. that was originally supplied. You should also include a receipt stating you sold the copy of XP in compliance with the EULA.  Steps 2 thru 4  should also be explained to the buyer. It is not necessary for the buyer to explain anything during the phone call activation; other than it was removed in compliance with the EULA and installed on a new computer. Activation is anonymous and supplying information other than what is required will often delay the activation until documentation is faxed or  snail mail verifying the transfer was in compliance with the XP EULA. If prompted to supply information other than the previously stated requirement, ask to speak to a supervisor; if you are in compliance; state that you need your new install of XP on upgraded hardware activated and you meet the required terms of the EULA agreement.
    There is no requirement you must state you are a new owner of a previously activated XP.
    If you are selling the computer with XP installed, you should run the factory restore procedure to remove your data and return the system to it's shipped state. Be sure to include all the necessary CD and documentation. It is important to remove all software registered to the seller along with any confidential personal information.

  9. Can I install IIS on the Home version of XP?
    "Can I install IIS on the Home version of XP?"
    No, IIS comes only with XP Professional. You will need to upgrade to the Pro version.
    If your computer came pre-installed with Home and you need Professional, check with your vendor for discounted upgrades. Within 30 days of purchase of a computer preinstalled with XP Home, Microsoft offers a $75 us $110 ca rebate for the XP Pro upgrade. The rebate ends 1/31/03. See link below.
    Offer expired. Microsoft Rebates
    Alternate third party web servers are available to install on XP home. Most recommended is Apache, but others are available.
    ServerWatch
  10. Backup on the Home edition of XP is not installed by default.
    "Backup on the Home edition of XP is not installed by default."
    The backup application on the retail version is located on the XP CD in the Valueadd folder, Some OEM's include backup, but some OEM's elect not to supply the additional folder.
    If your OEM does not supply NTbackup,
    Place the XP CD in the CD drive and select Additional Functions, then browse the CD.
    CD-ROM Drive:\VALUEADD\MSFT\NTBACKUP.
    The readme file includes additional information on installing backup.
    Once installed, it can be accessed from Start, All Programs, Accessories, System, Backup.
  11. After upgrading to XP you get the message cannot find the file \\.\DRI_KBFiltr when booting HP laptop.
    "After upgrading to XP you get the message, cannot find the file \\.\DRI_KBFiltr when booting HP laptop."
    If your keyboard is supported by XP, try uninstalling and let XP detect it. If you do not get the error message when you reboot, you do not need to do the below. But you may need to reinstall the software to get the buttons to work.
    This is related to the keyboard.
    1. Go to Control Panel, Add/Remove Programs, remove HP One-Touch Buttons
    2. Go to Control Panel, Keyboard, Hardware tab, select your keyboard and click
      Properties button.
    3. On Driver tab, click Update Driver.
    4. Select the "Install from a specific location", click Next.
    5. Select the "Search for best driver in these locations" option.
    6. Uncheck "Search removable media (floppy, CD-ROM..)", folder after the upgrade.
    7. After clicking Next, it should find the drivers, install them, reboot.
    Check HP's web site for more fixes.
  12. How do I access Safe Mode?
    "How do I access Safe Mode?"

    • To access Safe Mode, you have to press F8 as soon as you see booting into windows XP text. This can sometimes be quite tricky, especially on very fast systems.
    • You can press F8 during the entire boot sequence and if you have a dual boot system, select the OS, press Enter and F8 at the same time to enter Safe Mode.
    Using MSCONFIG to Access SAFE MODE
    1. From Start> Run Type: msconfig
    2. Choose the Boot.ini tab
    3. From Boot Option
    4. Select /SAFEBOOT by placing a check in the box.
    5. Press Apply
    6. Press OK
    7. Select Restart
    8. System will boot into Safe Mode
    9. BEFORE rebooting from  Safe mode repeat steps 1 thru 7 and uncheck the box selecting /SAFEBOOT
    10. Press Apply
    11. Press OK
    12. Select Restart
    13. You will get a message that your are in Troubleshooting Mode, place a check in the "do not show this again" box; press OK
    14. From Start> Run; once again Type: msconfig
    15. From the General Tab
    16. Select Normal Startup
    17. Press Apply
    18. Press OK
    19. This will restore normal boot
     
  13. How do I find the XP version info and EULA?
    "How do I find the XP version info and EULA?"
    You can access the XP Version Information and EULA [End-Users Licensing Agreement] by typing winver from START-->RUN text box.
    The Version Information is displayed in the dialogue window and the EULA is accessed from the End-Users Licensing Agreement  hyperlink.
    The XP EULA can also be accessed from RUN or the Command prompt:
    Type: X:\WINDOWS\system32\eula.txt where X is the drive letter of the Windows installation.
  14. I need to contact Microsoft to replace a CD, Lost Product key, License
    "I need to contact Microsoft to replace a CD, Lost Product key, License Question"
    Microsoft Customer Service
    Monday through Friday, from 6:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. Pacific
    time.
    Microsoft Customer Service, US phone 1-800-426-9400.
    Microsoft Knowledge Base Article - 326246
    Licensing Center. Call US 1-800-426-9400 (select option 4),
    Monday through Friday, 6:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (PST) Ask to speak directly to a
    Microsoft licensing specialist.

  15. I have multiple PC's can I download XP SP1 to install across a network or burn to CD?
    "I have multiple PC's can I download Windows XP to install across a network or burn to CD?" Windows XP Service Pack 1
    You can download the Stand-Alone version of XP SP1 from the Windows XP Service Pack 1 web page. After downloading, you can either install across the network or for non-networked or non-internet connected, slow dialup connection PC's, burn the file to a CD. Complete and full details about the size, fixes, special install procedures, etc. is supplied from the referenced web page.
  16. I have an OEM version of XP, what makes it cheaper than the retail versions?
    "I have an OEM version of XP, what makes it cheaper than the retail version?"
    OEM versions have the same restriction of being installed on one (1) computer at a time, plus the OEM versions have limitations in the ability to install as an upgrade, transferring to another PC or owner and the support provider
    Upgrade:
    You can only do clean installs with the OEM version, upgrades are impossible as far as my research has determined.
    Transfer:
    The EULA states that it is linked to the original computer it is installed.
    For clarification  or  snail mail contact:
    Microsoft Corporate and Legal Affairs
    Microsoft Corporation
    One Microsoft Way
    Redmond, WA 98052-6399
    USA Support:
    Support is supplied by the vendor that sells the software, Microsoft will only supply direct support on an  individual paid support basis or through it's Knowledge Base and Newsgroup support.
    New OEM restrictions initially affecting the top 20 Direct multinational OEM's.
    As of February 28th 2005, all COA keys affixed to the computer case will have internet activation disabled. A mandatory phone call will be prompted to receive an override key after answering a series of questions which manually verify them as legitimate.
    This does not affect unbranded OEM versions purchased with authorized hardware through legitimate vendors. Branded OEM versions [I.E. Dell, HP, Gateway, etc..] purchased from eBay and other similar vendors will be affected and may lose the ability to activate the questionable copies.
    How to tell if your copy of XP is real.
    http://www.microsoft.com/resources/howtotell/ww/default.mspx


  17. I need to change my XP Product Key
    "I need to change my XP Product Key"
    For whatever reason use one of the methods below.
    If you have a valid XP Pro key. 
    • XP Product Key Modifier
    Windows XP Product Key Modifier
     "This application automates the task of changing to a valid Windows XP product key. Doing this manually is quite a nuisance, so I wrote this little application to do it for you!"
    Authored by Ryan Matthew Lederman
    Download  xppid.zip
    With source code included xppid+src.zip
    Disclaimer: I did not write this utility or do I know anything about updating the source code.
    The source code is supplied at the request of Mr. Lederman. The author has decided not to continue development on any  future updates.
    The results from feedback have been  positive in regards to changing the key using the modifier.
    www.michaelstevenstech.com will host  updates submitted to me after an evaluation.
     The XP Product Key Modifier was tested only on XP Pro and results may vary on other versions. Ryan is not currently supporting the utility and does not have the time to answer email questions. Most users find it will change the Product Key, if it doesn't, use the Repair Install option to change the Product Key.
    Ryan needs mirror sites to host his key modifier. If you have the bandwidth or resources please contact Ryan at this address.
    XPPID by Ryan Lederman
    • Use the utility RockXP Key Finder
    RockXP  Key Finder
    RockXP  Key Finder allows you to:

    - To retrieve and change your XP Key
    - To retrieve all Microsoft Products keys
    - To save your XP activation file
    - To retrieve your lost XP system passwords
    - To retrieve your lost RAS (Remote Access Settings) passwords
    - And to generate new passwords
    Download: RockXP
    • Magic Jelly Bean Key
    The Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder
    The Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder is a freeware utility that retrieves your
    Product Key (CD Key) used to install windows from your registry.
    It has the options to copy the key to clipboard, save it to a text file or print
    it for safekeeping.
    It works on Windows 95, 98, ME, NT4, 2000, XP, .NET, Office 97 and Office XP.

    This version adds support for multiple installations of Office and the ability to change the Windows XP, 98 and ME installation key.
    Please note if your system came preinstalled from the OEM and you have not reinstalled XP, the Product key will not likely be valid. OEM's use a generic key to image the systems and this key will not work for reinstalling.
    • Upgrade from Windows
    UPGRADE from Windows with a valid Product key.
    1. Start Windows XP.
    2. Insert XP CD using the same version as installed.
    3. Choose to Install
    4. Choose to Upgrade.
    5. Enter new valid key when prompted [If you are changing the "Corporate XP Version",  use a retail Pro Key. For OEM see Repair Install below].
    6. Activate over internet.
    • Do a Repair Install Specialized information for using OEM XP Pro CD to change "Corp" VLK Product Key. 
    • Deleting a registry key value
    Deleting a registry key
    Deleting a registry key value will also trigger the Activation process that will allow a valid key to be applied. This is only for changing a volume product key to a retail product key. Must be a Pro version.
    1. The following requires modification to the registry, backup the key  by exporting it before making the change.
    2. You should also Rename (x):\windows\system32\wpa.dbl to  wpa.old  as a further precaution.
    3. From Start, Run, type
    4. regedit Navigate to:    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\WPAEvents
    5. Change any key value
      [screenshot]
      After changing the key value, from Start, Run type:%systemroot%\system32\oobe\msoobe.exe /a *
    6. If you have used the Xp-Antispy you should load it again. Right click on "licdll.dll" and select "Reset entry to it's initial state"
    7. This will trigger the activation window. Select the option to activate by phone

    8. The next window will give you the option to Change the Product Key

       
    9. Type in your valid Product Key The Product Key must be for the same version installed. I.E. Home Retail, Pro Retail, OEM Home, OEM Pro, VL.
       
    10. You should get this window

    * %systemroot% is usually C:\windows. If XP is installed to a location other than C:\windows,  it will be necessary to define the path to trigger the activation window.
    KB Q328874 HOW TO: Change the Volume Licensing Product Key on a Windows XP SP1-Based Computer
    KB Q326904 Error Message: The Product Key Used to Install Windows Is Invalid
  18. Remove a Dual Boot
    "Remove a Dual Boot."
    When the OS being removed resides on the hard drive or partition with the boot files, this  hard drive or partition should not be removed. The OS that is retained will have registry entries that will be broken if the hard drive or partition is removed. Although it can be done, it is not worth the effort. Another caveat to take into consideration is applications installed to other drives will break if the drive letter changes and will need to be reinstalled.
    • Remove Win9x/Me & Keep Win XP
    Remove Win9x/Me & Keep Win XP

    When XP is installed after Win 9x/Me, you cannot format the partition/Drive Win9X/Me is installed on to remove the dual boot.
    To remove Win9x/Me from a dual boot installation with XP.


    1. Boot to Win XP*
    2. Open System Properties [Winkey+Pause/Break]. Select Advanced tab; Startup and Recovery; Settings button.
    3. Select the Edit button and from notepad, first backup boot.ini, by going to File; Save As and rename boot.ini. to something like boot.inibak.
    4. Delete the line or lines) that refer to Win9x/Me.
    5. Set timeout=0 so the system boots directly into Win XP (you will not get the boot menu).
    6. Save As boot.ini & Exit. The example below would be representative of the results. [boot loader]
      timeout=0
      default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(2)\WINDOWS
      [operating systems]
      multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(2)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Professional" /fastdetect


    7. You can now open Explorer and delete the hidden [Explorer toolbar, Folder Options, View, unhide]  bootfiles for Win9x/Me: C:\Io.sys and Msdos.sys , plus Command.com and, if present. [I would leave Autoexec.bat and Config.sys for compatibility, but they can be removed]
    8. You can now delete the Win9x/Me folder (Usually named C:\Windows) and Program Files (if not shared with XP).
    * Uninstall all Win9x/Me software if both Win9x/Me and XP are on same drive/partition before proceeding with the above.
    Alternate method for removal of Win 98/Me and leave XP
    1. Backup the XP boot files located on the Win98/Me partition to a floppy. NTLDR, NTDETECT.COM, BOOT.INI
    2. Boot from a Win 98/Me startup disk.
    3. Format C: drive/partition.
    4. Copy NTLDR, NTDETECT.COM, BOOT.INI from floppy to C: drive.
    5. Boot from XP CD and take the first repair option by typing R to load recovery console.
    6. Run the commands fixboot, fixmbr.
    7. Exit and boot into XP.
    Note that the above method will delete all data from the Win98/Me partition/drive.
    • Remove Windows 2000/XP and leave XP
    Remove Windows 2000/XP and leave XP
    Procedure below is for dual boot of Windows 2000 installed on  C:\ and XP to another partition or hard drive. File system is not a factor. Drives or partitions can be NTFS, Fat32 or a combination of the two.
    1. Boot into the Windows 2000 or XP option you want to remove.
    2. Uninstall all applications. This will get rid of application folders located in Program Files and on other drives.
    3. Backup your addresses and any V-Box folders [downloaded programs from the internet] that are sometimes located in the Winnt folder.
    4. Boot into  Windows XP (the one you want to keep if you have more than one).
    5. Delete the Windows 2000 folder on C, usually on a Win 2000 install it is
      called "winnt", but could be called "windows".
    6. Delete the documents and settings folder on C
    7. Delete the C:\Program Files folder if XP does not have applications
      installed to the C:\Program Files.
    8. Do not delete these (hidden) boot files from the root
      folder: C:\Boot.ini, Bootsect.dos, hiberfil.sys, ntbootdd.sys, Ntdetect.com,
      Ntldr, Pagefile.sys.
    9. Edit Boot.ini from System Properties [Winkey+Pause/Break]>Advanced
      tab>Startup and Recovery>Settings>Edit.
    10. Before editing, go to File and Save as. Save boot.ini to something like boot.inibkp.
    11. Set timeout to 0.
    12. Remove the line referencing Windows 2000.
    13. Save as boot.ini.
        Unless you reinstall Win XP clean, you cannot easily move XP to the C
      drive, so the XP installation location will remain on the same drive with the same drive letter designation.
    After completing any of the above removal techniques , you can use an imaging application [Partition Magic, BootIT NG, etc.] to resize the C drive and the adjacent partitions to reclaim space if needed.
    • Remove Win XP from a NTFS System
    Remove Win XP from a NTFS System

    To  remove XP on a NTFS system using a Win9x/Me  startup disk.
    1. Backup all data, settings, passwords, downloaded programs, etc., anything that cannot be restored from other media.
    2. Boot up  with a Win9x/Me boot disk, and type in a:\fdisk /mbr This will create a new boot sector (DOS, FAT), destroying the existing NTFS.
    3. You can now format the partition/drive with a reboot using the floppy startup disk..
    4. Type at the DOS prompt: a:\format c: /s  This will format the drive and install the basic system files.
    5. You can use fdisk /status to identify your partitions.
    6. Win9x/Me can now be installed from the CD or other media.
     
    • Remove Win XP & Keep Win9x/Me when Both use  FAT/FAT32 file system
    Remove Win XP & Keep Win9x/Me when Both use  FAT/FAT32 file system
    To remove Windows XP from a dual-boot installation with Win9x/Me when they use the same FAT file system and leave Win9x/Me as the bootable OS.
    The following steps apply only to computers where a dual boot with XP was installed after Win9X/Me.
    The boot drive (drive C:),  contains the Win9x/Me  (hidden) boot files Io.sys and Msdos.sys; plus Command.com , Autoexec.bat & Config.sys. Backup all data on your hard disks that can not be replaced.
    1. Use the Win9x boot disk to boot up the computer.  At the A: prompt, type SYS C: and then press ENTER. The Sys command transfers control of the boot process to Win9x/Me. You will see a System transferred message.
    2. Reboot
    3. You can now delete these (Hidden) boot files from the root folder: C:\Boot.ini, Bootsect.dos, hiberfil.sys, ntbootdd.sys, Ntdetect.com, Ntldr, Pagefile.sys (if they are present).
    4. Finally, delete the Windows XP installation folder (typically <drive letter>:\Windows), Documents and Settings and Program Files [if not shared with Winx/Me] from the XP hard drive or partition.
    • Remove Windows Vista or Delete Vista install Removing Vista from a dual boot system
    Remove Windows Vista or Delete Vista install Removing Vista from a dual boot system
    Backup all data on your hard disks that can not be replaced before performing the step by step procedure below. This procedure is fairly difficult and should not be attempted unless you have a good background in computer usage and viable backups of the hard drive data that can be lost in the procedure.
    1. Boot from your XP CD
    2. Boot into recovery console by pressing "R" at the following screen.
    3. Type command "FIXBOOT C:"
    4. Type "FIXMBR", read warning messages, press "Y" to continue
    5. Exit and reboot.
    6. Edit Boot.ini and delete line with "Longhorn" or "Vista" on it, then delete the folder Vista resides in.
  19. I have two installations of XP on the same partition.......
    "I have two installations of XP on the same partition........"
    1. Boot to the desired version of Windows XP you want to keep. Making note of  the position in the boot menu. This will be important when you edit boot.ini.
    2. Open a command prompt * and type " echo %windir%" without the quotes. This will give you the current Windows folder you are using.
    3. From Explorer, delete the folder containing the installation you want to remove. The original install folder is usually called Windows and subsequent folders will be derivatives of Windows or Winnt.
    4. From System Properties [Winkey+Pause/Break] > Advanced Tab > Startup and Recovery > Settings > Edit.
    5. Select the Edit button and from notepad, first backup boot.ini, by going to File; Save As and rename boot.ini. to something like boot.inibak.
    6. Remove the line referencing the installation not chosen; you made note of in step one.
    7. Set timeout=0 so the system boots directly into Win XP (you will not get the boot menu).
    8. Save As boot.ini & Exit.
    9. Reboot.
    * To access the command prompt: Start>All Programs>Accessories>Command     Prompt or from Start>RUN>Type "CMD" without the quotes, then press OK.
    Printable Text version of I have two installations of XP...............
     
     
  20. Recovery Console SP2 revision
    "Recovery Console SP2 revision"
    Recovery Console commands
    What is Recovery Console  and what does it do?
    XP Recovery console is designed to help you recover when your computer does not start properly or does not start at all. Recovery Console should be used by the relatively advanced user who can use basic commands to identify and locate problem drivers and files. You must also have administrator rights to use the Recovery Console.
    One example
    Your Windows-Based computer will not boot into Windows XP and invoking Safe Mode does not fix the problem. Recovery Console can be accessed from booting from the XP CD and selecting the repair option on the first setup screen. It will say press R to access the Recovery Console or ENTER to continue setup. To load the Recovery Console Press R.Recovery Console can be installed and have it as an option on a boot menu when you start your computer.
    • To install the Recovery Console
    To install the Recovery Console, perform the following steps:
    1. Insert the Windows XP CD into the CD-ROM drive.
    2. Click Start and then click Run.
    3. In the Open box, type:<CD drive letter>:\i386\winnt32.exe /cmdcons
    4. A Windows Setup Dialog Box appears, which describes the Recovery Console option.
    5. Restart the computer. You will see a "Microsoft Windows Recovery Console" entry on the boot menu. If Recovery Console does not accept a correct password click this Bug fix
    6. The system prompts you to confirm installation. Click Yes to start the installation procedure.
    • If you have applied Service Pack 2
    A message indicating the "version of Windows on the system is newer than the version being installed" will happen if you applied Service Pack 2 and the CD media you are using to install is pre-SP2.
    You will need to do one of the following.
    1. If SP2 was applied as an update and the option to save the uninstall files was enabled, Uninstall SP2 from Add/Remove.
    2. If Windows XP SP2 was preinstalled or installed from XP media with SP2 included, uninstall will not be an option. You will need to clean install with an older XP version or use one of the options in 3 and 4 or 5.
    3. Use a slipstreamed XP CD with SP2.
    4. Use a retail/OEM XP SP2 CD when available.
      SP2 work around fix
      Work around compliments of "Jon" from the msnews newsgroups.
      You can install Recovery Console, AFTER SP2 installation, via the following
      workaround.....

      For this you need the full network version of SP2.

      1. Open a command prompt in the folder containing the SP2 installer
        and type
        WindowsXP-KB835935-SP2-ENU.exe -x
        Choose a folder to extract the files to e.g. file:///c:/SP2files
      2. Make a backup of the file winnt32.exe in c:\windows\i386
      3. Replace the winnt32.exe file in c:\windows\i386 with the identically
        named file in C:\sp2files\i386 (or in the i386 folder in the folder where
        you extracted the files)
      4. Open a command prompt at c:\windows\i386
        Type winnt32.exe /cmdcons
        Recovery Console should install
        (Ignore the first error message, if any)
      5. Replace the winnt32.exe in c:\windows\i386 with its original version
        (created in step 2)

        Hope this works for you


        Jon
    • Fix For Correct Password Not Accepted Bug.
      Fix For Correct Password Not Accepted Bug 1. Install Recovery Console.
      To do so, open a command box in Win XP:
      (select Start | Run, then type cmd); then, at the command prompt,
      type D:\i386\winnt32.exe/cmdcons (replace D: with the letter for your CD drive).
      The installation will proceed, after which you can choose the Recovery Console
      from the Windows boot screen.
      (The Bug)
      There is a bug in WinXP there prevents you from using Recovery Console
      even though the right password is typed when prompted....
      So, here's the trick.
      2. Enable Administrator to Log On Automatically in Recovery Console
      3. Reboot into WinXP.
      4. Select Start | Run, then type regedit Go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Setup \RecoveryConsole Change the SecurityLevel DWORD value data to 1.
      5. Reboot the PC.
  21. How Do I Edit The Boot Menu
    "How Do I Edit The Boot Menu"
    1. Boot to Win XP
    2. First you need to make the system files visible by opening Windows Explorer (Start> Right click> select Explorer) and from Tools> Folder Options> View> Click the folders to enable system files to be vi sable.
    3. Open System Properties [Winkey+Pause/Break]. Select Advanced tab; Startup and Recovery; Settings button.
    4. Select the Edit button and from notepad, backup boot.ini, by going to File; Save As and rename boot.ini. to something like boot.inibak.
    5. Delete the line/line's) referencing the boot option you want to remove.
    6. Set timeout=0 so the system boots directly into Win XP (you will not get the boot menu).
    7. Save As boot.ini & Exit. The example below would be representative of the results.
    [boot loader]
    timeout=0
    default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
    [operating systems]
    multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Professional" /fastdetect

  22. How do I change Registered Owner Name?
    "How do I Change Registered Owner Name?"
    1. Press START
    2. Press RUN
    3. Type REGEDIT in the RUN box.
    4. Press the Home key or select My Computer from the REGEDIT menu with the mouse.
    5. Press F3 and type RegOwner in the search box. Wait for the search to find the key. This can take a while depending on the size of the registry and or speed of the system.
    6. Right click and choose MODIFY.
    7. Change Owner information. You can also change Company name from the key located above the RegOwner key.
    8. Close regedit and reboot.
     
  23. How do I tell if I have the 32 or 64 bit version of Windows XP?
    "How do I tell if I have the 32 or 64 bit version of Windows XP?"
    XP Home does not come in a 64 bit version. The 64 bit version of XP requires special hardware and is now readily available. The software that makes use of the 64 bit version is also specialized for use on the 64 bit architecture.
    To tell which version; type winver in the run box.
    For professional system information, diagnostics and benchmarking download the free utility. I would suggest downloading the enterprise version. AIDA32
    Click on the links below for more information on the 64 bit version of XP. Newsgroup Support for Windows for 64-Bit Extended Systems
    http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/64bit/extended/trial/support.mspx

    Windows XP 64-Bit Edition for 64-Bit Extended Systems Customer Preview Program
    http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/64bit/downloads/upgrade.asp

    List of Limitations in 64-Bit Windows
    http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;282423&Product=winxp

    Cannot Install Some Programs on Windows XP for 64-bit Platforms
    http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;298218&Product=winxp
    Windows XP 64 bit overview Intel Itanium
    AMD Opteron
     
  24. How to Uninstall Windows XP and Revert to a Previous Operating System
    "How to Uninstall Windows XP and Revert to a Previous Operating System?"
    If you upgraded from Windows XP Home Edition, Microsoft Windows 2000 or Microsoft Windows NT 4.0, you cannot uninstall Windows XP.
     
    How to Uninstall Windows XP
    1. Restart your computer in Safe mode. To do so, press the F8 key while Windows is starting.
    2. Log on using the Administrator account.
    3. Click Start, click Control Panel and then double-click Add or Remove Programs.
    4. When you receive the "Are you sure you want to uninstall Windows XP and restore your previous operating system?" message, click Yes to start the Windows XP un-installation process.
    5. After the Windows XP un-installation process is finished, your computer will shutdown, restart and then boot to the previously-installed operating system.

  25. How do I turn off Windows Automatic Updates?
    "How do I turn off Windows Automatic Updates?"
    1. Use WinKey+Pause/Break to open System Properties.
    2. Select the Automatic Updates tab.
    3. Uncheck the box that says Keep my computer up to date.
    4. Click on OK.
     
  26. Do I need Service Pack 1 installed before applying Service Pack 2
    "Do I need Service Pack 1 installed before applying Service Pack 2?"
    No, Service Pack2 includes most updates released and tested on the date it was released. Updates released after Service Pack2 will need to be applied after running the Service Pack 2 update. You should access Windows Update immediately after applying  Service Pack 2 to get critical updates issued after Service Pack 2's release.
  27. My Browser Has Been Hijacked.
    "My Browser Has Been Hijacked"
    You have picked up malware and/or spyware. Some spyware is very hard to remove and requires running multiple spyware removal tools to rid your computer of these pests.

  28. Setup cannot continue because .....newer...version.
    "Setup cannot continue because ......newer...version...."
    Setup cannot continue because the version of Windows on your computer is newer than the version on the CD.
    You get this message when upgrading, loading Recovery Console or doing an in place upgrade from Windows, when you use a pre-SP2 XP CD on an XP installation that has been updated to SP2.
    You have the options listed below.
    1. Remove the SP2 update.
    2. Create a slipstreamed XP CD merging the SP2 update.
      2a Autostreamer for creating a slipstreamed CD the easy way.
    3. Purchase an XP CD with SP2 included.


    To install the Recovery Console See the work around below. Using the pre XP SP2 CD will give a message  indicating the version of Windows on the system is newer than the version being installed.
    1. Insert the Windows XP CD into the CD-ROM drive. Click Start and then click Run.
    2. In the Open box, type: CD drive letter>:\i386\winnt32.exe /cmdcons
    3. A Windows Setup Dialog Box appears, which describes the Recovery Console option.
    4. The system prompts you to confirm installation. Click Yes to start the installation procedure.
    5. Restart the computer. You will see a "Microsoft Windows Recovery Console" entry on the boot menu If Recovery Console does not accept a correct password. Click this bug fix link. Recovery Console commands
       You can install Recovery Console, AFTER SP2 installation, via the following workaround...........
      For this you need the full network version of SP2.
      Downloadable from here.
      1. Open a command prompt in the folder containing the SP2 installer and type WindowsXP-KB835935-SP2-ENU.exe -x
      2. Choose a folder to extract the files to e.g. c:\SP2files
      3. Make a backup of the file winnt32.exe in c:\windows\i386
      4. Replace the winnt32.exe file in c:\windows\i386 with the identically named file in C:\sp2files\i386 (or in the i386 folder in the folder where you extracted the files)
      5. Open a command prompt at c:\windows\i386 Type winnt32.exe /cmdcons
      6. Recovery Console should install (Ignore the first error message, if any)
      7. Replace the winnt32.exe in c:\windows\i386 with its original version (created in step 2)
      Hope this works for you Jon
  29. Can I burn an ISO image with XP native burning software?
    "Can I burn an ISO image with XP native burning software?"
    The XP native burning software does not support burning an ISO image to a CD. You will need the free ISO plug-in created by MVP Alex Feinman. 
    ISO Recorder
    Read the information carefully before installing.
    The ISO plug-in is currently being updated and will soon have a beta available with added features so check for availability soon.
  30. Does Windows XP have a spellchecker for Outlook Express or Wordpad?
    "Does Windows XP have a spellchecker for Wordpad or Outlook Express?"
    No, Windows XP [all versions] the operating system does not have built spellchecking.
    Outlook Express: Spellchecking can be enabled by installing a word processing application like Word that comes with Office or other third party spellchecking applications.
    Spell Checker for OE 2.1
    Wordpad: The word processing application included with XP can also get a spellchecker by adding a third party spellchecking ad-on.
    Give WordPad a Spell Checker
  31. How do you Remove Windows 98 uninstall files?
    "How do you Remove Windows 98 uninstall files?"
    The removal utility can be accessed in any of the methods listed below. 
    1. Click Start | Programs | Accessories | System Tools | Disk Cleanup
    2. Click Start | Run and in the Open box type cleanmgr and click OK 
    3. In Windows Explorer or My Computer, right-click the disk in which
      you want to free up space, click Properties, click the General tab,
      and then click Disk Cleanup. You will get the option to remove
      the saved 98 uninstall files. Disk Cleanup is available on both Home and Professional versions of XP.
     
  32. How do I setup a hard drive larger than 137 gig?
    "How do I setup a hard drive larger than 137 gig?"
    You will need to apply Service Pack 1 or greater to enable XP to see hard drives larger than 137 gig. You may also need to flash your BIOS to get support for large hard drives.
     How to enable 48-bit Logical Block Addressing support for ATAPI disk drives in Windows XP

  33. How do I activate after the 30 day grace period?
    "How do I activate after the 30 day grace period?"
    After logon, the activation wizard will start and if you have internet access, activate over the internet or choose to activate by phone, then follow the prompts to activate.
  34. How do I verify faulty device drivers?
    "How do I verify faulty device drivers?"
    You get frequent Blue Screens, Lockups or can only boot to Safe Mode. It could be a faulty device driver.
    You can use the Verifier program to help identify a faulty device driver.
    1. From Start Button:
      -Select: Run
      -Type: Verifier in the box.
      -Then OK out.
    2. Use the default: Create Standard Settings
    3. Select the type of drivers you want to confirm. 
    4. A list of drivers to be verified on the next boot will be shown.
    5. Reboot
    6. If your computer stops with a blue screen, you should get an error message with the problem driver
    7. To turn off Verifier, go to:
      -Start Button
      -Select: Run
      -Type: verifier /reset in the box.
      -OK out.

  35. SP2 Blocking Tool Expires April 12th 2005, does it affect me?
    "SP2 Blocking Tool Expires April 12th 2005, does it affect me?"
    Who is affected by the blocking tool?
    The average consumer should not be concerned with the media hype concerning the SP2 blocking tool. The tool was  implemented to assist mid-market and enterprise customers time to conduct internal testing before deploying SP2.
    Disable automatic updates and you can install SP2 at your leisure.
    I would recommend enabling automatic updates, but not to automatically install. I also recommend you never use automatic update to update your hardware or third party software. Use the vendors web site to get updates.

  36. How to tell if XP is activated.
    "How to tell if XP is activated"
    How to tell if XP is activated.
    Go to Start>Run and enter the following:
     oobe/msoobe /a

  37. How to Remove Windows XP Uninstallation Files.
    "How to Remove Windows XP Uninstallation Files."
    How to Remove Windows XP Uninstallation Files.
    WARNING: After you use the following procedure, you will not be able to uninstall Windows XP and revert to the operating system that was previously installed on your computer.

    To remove the uninstallation files that are created when you upgrade a computer from a previous operating system to Microsoft Windows XP:
    1. Click Start, click Control Panel and then double-click Add or Remove Programs.
    2. In the Currently installed programs box, click Windows XP Uninstall and then click Change/Remove.
    3. Click Remove the backup of my previous operating system and then click Continue.
    4. Click Yes when you receive the "If you remove the backup of your previous operating system, you will no longer be able to uninstall Windows XP. Are you sure you want to remove the backup?" message.
    To remove uninstall information for Windows Updates:
    It is a good policy to wait at least a week after applying updates or Service Packs before removing the uninstallation files.
    1.  Open the Explorer and navigate to the WINDOWS folder. Find the
      folders named $NTUNINSTALLKBxxxxxx$ [ KB is sometimes replaced by Q in
      the $NTUNINSTALLxxxxxx$ name]. Delete the folders for the patches you no longer need. 
       
    2. Delete the KBxxxxxx.LOG and Qxxxxxx.LOG files with the same number
      from the WINDOWS folder as well.
       
    3.  In the Control Panel > Add and remove Programs double-click the
      uninstall entries for the same patches and let Windows remove the
      entries.
    To remove uninstall information for the latest Service Pack.
    •  Remove the C:\WINDOWS\$NTSERVICEPACKUNINSTALL$ folder

  38. Setup stops responding with 34 minutes remaining
    "Setup stops responding with 34 minutes remaining"
    This error usually indicates a hardware issue. You should remove all hardware but the video and CD drive, plus any USB, Firewire or other device.
    http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;828267

    Setup stops responding or displays an unrecoverable
    error message
    http://support.microsoft.com/kb/811267/
     
  39. How can I tell if my copy of XP is real?
    "How can I tell if my copy of XP is real?"
    How to tell if your copy of XP is real.
    Microsoft's web site that details how to determine if your CD copy of XP is genuine.

    http://www.microsoft.com/resources/howtotell/ww/default.mspx

     
  40. Genuine Advantage Diagnostic Tool (1.5.0540.0) returned the message, "Blocked VLK" beside the heading Genuine validation status.
    "How can I tell if my copy of XP is real?"
    How to tell if your copy of XP is real.
    Microsoft's web site that details how to determine if your CD copy of XP is genuine.

    http://www.microsoft.com/resources/howtotell/ww/default.mspx

     
  41. Windows 7 upgrade
    "Upgrade to Windows 7?"
    Upgrade to Windows 7 from XP is NOT supported and an upgrade is not supplied
    Dual Boot is the only option
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