How do I re-install Windows and keep programs

[jhirst]

I am fixing (attempting to fix) a friend's pc:

Athlon 2200
512Mb Generic DDR
MSI mobo
80Gb Maxtor HDD

When it gets to logging into Windows (XP) it reboots. I unplugged everything that was not essential (floppy drive, sound card, etc.). Still the same. I tried to boot in all modes that come up with F8 (safe mode etc). Still the same. I tried a Windows repair from the cd. It freezes after installing drivers. I plugged the hard drive into my (working) PC and still the same problem. So... It's either the HDD or Windows. I then downloaded Powermax, Maxtor's diagnostic tool and it found no problem with the HDD.

I have decided to re-install Windows, but I don't want to have to re-install all of the programs, as I haven't the time. How do I re-insall Windows XP while keeping all programs? Or does anyone have any idea as to how to fix this.

Thanks in advance!

[macko72]

The only way you already tried Repair install of Windows, if you did this: http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm than that's it !!! Visit even this site for more recovery chances: http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/repair_xp.htm

[jhirst]

Sounds like I need to re-install completely. Thanks for the reply.

Nice links by the way!

[Cricket]

Here's another good site (http://www.windowsreinstall.com/) to know.

:) Cricket

[jollyjohn]

G'day


Check this (http://www.digitalwebcast.com/articles/viewarticle.jsp?id=8658-0)
and here (http://www.windowsreinstall.com/winxphome/installxpcdrepair/index.htm)
John :)