Microsoft QuickTips

Hi i have tried to install an older version of xp on an existing xp installation that has sp2. i have tried formatting, installing on bootup etc but it tells me the "volume is mounted" when formatting and "windows has detected an older version" when using bootup with disk. it seems i cant install the older version. i havent got xp with sp2 on it thats why i havent got the cd for the current xp installation. thanks noel.

You must run fdisk. simply formatting c drive will not do the job. there are several ways of doing this. here's one. from the start menu select run enter cmd in the box and click ok. you'll see a small black window open. it will contain a line similar to c:\text text text> with a flashing cursor line just after the > symbol. type cd:\ then press the enter key. you'll see c:\> type fdisk c then press enter key remember to include the space before the c. sit back and watch it all happen. fdisk is more than just reformatting. it erases all the disc contents and removes the existing "partition". you will get dire warnings that it will erase everything on the disc. you should continue because that's exactly what you want to do. if it prompts you for partion information then go for the defaults (i think it's partition 0). when you've wiped the disc you must then install your boot cd and follow the instructions to re-install xp. you will need to install your isp software so that you can go on the internet. don't install any other application software, especially games, untill you've finished with updating xp. when you have installed everything you will be prompted to go online to register xp as a legitimate copy. if you don't do this then you will not be able to receive updates or security patches. the activation key will be on a label on the disc packaging. please enter it carefully. as soon as it's "activated" (registered) you must go to the microsoft update site and download service pack 2 (sp2) followed by all the patches and upgrades. you must install sp2 first because most patches need it. these sp2 and patches are free to registered users. be aware that it will probably take several hours to download all the microsoft service pack 2 and patches, even at fast broadband speeds. you must not surf to any other web site at all (except to your isp home page) until the machine has been fully patched. it will be dangerous to your web security. be very patient. if you pick up malware you'll have to do the whole thing again. this is the sort of job to start at 08:00 on saturday morning and will finish by tea time. if you don't have the activation key but you can justify your xp disc then phone microsoft help line (they're at reading so it's not an international call). explain the situation and they will probably issue you with another one. have fun.