How to Perform a Windows Repair
A Guide to an Easy Solution for Unknown Windows XP Problems
Aug 13, 2008
Windows XP can randomly generate errors or problems for any reason at any time, and in most cases, restoring the original settings provides a simple solution. Even the most skilled PC user comes across problems with Windows. Most problems occur because changes in the computer, such as installing new hardware or software, or because of changes in settings, like in services or registry.
Problems include, but are not limited to, program load errors, installation problems, or inabilities to communicate with hardware. While it may be possible to fix these manually, some causes are difficult to identify. To prevent having to do a full Windows reinstall, Windows Repair essentially deletes files from the Windows folder, and installs the original files that came with the disk. Though the process appears difficult, it can be performed easily.
Preparations
Before starting the repair, make sure all important files are backed up on another hard drive or disk. While the odds of the process erasing all files by accident are extremely unlikely, it never hurts to be prepared. Insert the Windows XP installation CD in the CD drive, and then reboot the computer.
As the computer is rebooting, the computer has to boot from the CD. There are two ways to do this, but the keys are different for each computer. The first way is to press the correct F-key to load up the screen to select the boot device. In most cases, this key is usually F8, F10, or F12, but if these do not work, consult the motherboard manual, the manual that came with the computer, or the company’s website to find the correct key.
If this still cannot be found, the second method is to load the BIOS menu. Press F2, DEL, or whatever key is listed at the bottom of the screen when the computer starts up. In the menu, locate the section that determines the boot device, change the primary boot device to the CD drive, and save and exit the screen. Be sure to change the primary boot device back to the hard drive after the repair.
Performing the Repair
Once the computer boots, the message “Press any key to boot from CD” will appear. Press any key, and the CD will begin loading up the files. After this is done, three options will appear. Press enter to install Windows (DO NOT press R as it will start the Recovery Console, which is different), then accept the terms and conditions by pressing F8. The CD will already locate the current Windows Installation and give the option to begin a Windows Repair. Press R to start the repair.
At this point, the computer will proceed to delete the old Windows files and install the new ones. After it finishes, it will reboot the system. When the computer starts up again, an installation screen will appear again. This process takes anywhere from 15 to 40 minutes depending on the computer, and may ask for input for settings, like date and time and network setup. Once this is complete, the computer will reboot again, and one last setup screen will appear. Press next, fill in any necessary information, and press finish. Windows will start up and the process in finished.
Post-Repair Matters
All programs will remain intact, save for any Windows updates. The number of updates depends on the version of Windows on the CD, but can be easily done by going through Windows Update. It may take a few times, but after it’s done, the process is complete and hopefully any problems will be fixed.
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