This should get you started. http://www.djdenham.com/Install%20Procedures.htm

You will also need to go into the bios and make your Cd Rom the first boot device. Post back if you need directions for this. If you have a Dimension computer you can find directions here for making the Cd rom the first boot device.

Message Edited by aps@sun on 07-24-2004 03:54 PM

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@cyidi2000 wrote:
I need help formatting my pc entirely and reinstalling windows xp. I tried using the reinstall cd, I rebooted my pc and started the setup process, then two partitions appeared and the big partition could not be erased because windows was using it, so I had to reinstall windows in that same partition what caused a total disaster, when I turn on my pc, two windows appear to i can choose, the secong one does not work, and the windows desktop and everything appears to be like in a brand new pc but when i look into drive c all of my old things are there, how can I completely erase everything so I can reinstall my windows and give my pc a fresh start?

Dell provides the reinstall info online for your computer.  Simply click the Product Support Tab on the top left, then Reinstall Guide. Select your computer, and your OS and you'll get step by step instructions. 

Basically, you didn't remove all partitons and then install a new one and format it.

there are instructions for reinstalling win xp in dell support, "product support"/reinstall guide.. (you can go to "product support", above) you need to make the cd-rom drive the first boot device, or "1" in the boot sequence, so as to be able to boot from the win xp cd (in the cd-rom drive) and do a clean install of win xp.. look in the reinstall guide for instructions on how to adjust the settings in the "system setup" (the bios), making the cd-rom drive the first boot device..

i would also use dell's harddrive debug program before installing win xp..

you need to have a firewall running before reconnecting to the internet after doing a clean reinstall of win xp.. you could use win xp's built-in "internet connection firewall", or another one if you have one saved on disks..

(if you do not use the harddrive debug program) when you are installing win xp (after booting from the win xp cd in the cd-rom drive), delete all the partitions that are found and then create a new partition.. don't get confused when it says win xp is already installed in one partition, just delete it..

Message Edited by redwolfe_98 on 07-24-2004 05:55 PM