How to Reinstall Windows XP Without Using a CD
- 1). Locate the “i386” folder within the “Windows” folder on the C drive. Use the “Search” function within the "Start" menu if you can't find it.
- 2). Double-click “winnt32.exe” within the “i386” folder. This launches the Windows XP Setup utility.
- 3). Follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows XP. Enter your Windows Product Key when prompted. If you want to completely erase the hard drive, reformat and reinstall Windows XP from scratch, you will need to select “Custom” installation route. Follow the on-screen instructions to delete the current Windows partition and create a new partition with the unallocated space. If you simply want to reinstall the system files, select the “Upgrade” route.