Doing a clean install of XP Pro on my Inspiron 8500 and I just want to gather that I have the best procedure down. I've already seen all the Dell Support pages on Driver install order, etc etc.. But as everyone knows most support pages aren't specific/clear enough in providing a solid, definite answer.

Here's how I gather it should be done:
(Note: My laptop came with the Dell OEM XP Pro w/ SP1 install disc)
1. Boot to CD, delete and recreate Partition, Full Format
2. Install Windows (blah blah all the usual)
3. Install all drivers
A NSS
B Chipset
C Video
D NIC
E Audio
F (Basically all the rest after, Modem(if used, I don't), Wireless, Touchpad, Etc)
4. Install SP2
5. Windows Updates
6. Blah Blah everything else

Anyways I want opinions. This all look good to everyone?
After OS Install THEN Drivers THEN SP2? Or SP2 THEN Drivers? (Which is best)
And NSS (Notebook System Software), recommended?

I'm aware of security issues concerning hooking up an unpatched install to a network and know how to prevent any problems during patching, so don't worry about that. (SP2 install file, then hook up to broadband for Windows Updates behind a router(firewalled) w/ other people's computers in the house disconnected from network)

Just looking for "You got it right" or "I would do this differently because INSERT_REASON"

Thank You

Message Edited by welsalex on 01-09-2008 10:17 AM

Message Edited by welsalex on 01-09-2008 01:48 PM