Re - install Windows XP Home

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steve2222

498 posts

Ultimate Geek

#13645 21-May-2007 20:33

If I re-install (as opposed to Repair) it warns that you may lose files from Windows folder. Is it only this folder or do I risk losing files from any folders. The install message says you could lose My Documents.

Does anyone have any experience with what folders/files will be lost?

Steve

tonyhughes

Hawkes Bay
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#71563 21-May-2007 20:58

perform a full backup before any major system changes (as you should do anyway), and you wont have any problem...

Batman

Mad Scientist
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#72854 30-May-2007 16:35

tonyhughes: perform a full backup before any major system changes (as you should do anyway), and you wont have any problem...

someone once said if you had to hear this you probably shouldnt be attempting what you're about to do yourself.

in theory it will move your documents into another folder but it will not guarantee what could become lost. there are times where something goes wrong (the cat pees on the computer while it's reinstalling or just bad luck) and you lose EVERYTHING. note that when you reinstall you have to reinstall EVERYTHING. every hardware (well, every hardware update i should say), every program, yes, the ms office and your msn messenger, and your ... and your hard drive becomes a MESS! i'd reformat if i were you. the best virus and spyware cure too. the other option is to just repair. but i cannot say if it will work. what's the problem w your xp btw?

steve2222

498 posts

Ultimate Geek

#72893 30-May-2007 20:27

all fixed now without reinstalling.

The problem was not being able to get the Remote Desktop connection to work over VPN.

Transpired that Zone Alarm had not been uninstalled correctly, and although not showing as a running process, it was none theless causing a conflict with MS Firewall and the firewall settings to allow RDC to connect.

Thanks for your help.

Steve