Questions on fixing / repairing XP Pro

[TwoRails]

I've never repaired or fixed an XP system, so this is my first time and am not sure on a couple of things. (this is my own system, BTW)

First, isn't there a "System File Checker" in XP? I can find a Signature Checker but not sure if that's the same... (it shows only a few files not "Signed" and those are sound card and printer files which I have no problems with.)

Is there a difference between "fix" and "repair?" I've looked around but they seem to be used interchangably.

And my main question is, after any fix or repair, do you have to go thru all the motions of reinstalling any security patches and / or Windows Updates? and does it usually affect other programs? (My CD version is pre-SP1, but my system is updated to SP1 and all patches / updates installed.)

TIA

(The reason I'm asking as I can't burn DVDs anymore; nothing but coasters. I feel the problem is that I have sooooo many DVD burning apps installed and related utilities that there must be a confilict(s). I am planning to uninstall a bunch of programs and am expecting trouble, so I want to be prepared.

Any other tips, tricks, or suggestions are more than welcome )

[Panama Red]

Here's a link that will help the SFC question, TR.

http://www.updatexp.com/scannow-sfc.html

As far as a repair/install, yes, you'll need to reinstall everything not included on the disk you use for the repair, including Windows Updates.

[bailey]

hi.
go to my computer
right click on your system ditve
click on properties
click on tools
there is a utility that will check the hard drive for any errors.

there is a repaire install on the xp cd
run setup chose install
do not chose the repaire console
at the install menue you will have the option to repaire your installation.
you will need to do all the patches and updates over.
or you could just install the sp2
that should get you back to normal

after you have everything working the way you want, I would recommend that you set a restore point so that you will have it to go back to should you run into any problems again in the future.

[TwoRails]

Thanks for the tips. (Nice link, PR. I gave it a quick look, as time is short today = game day but I will study it).

I do keep the system well groomed with chkdsk, defrag, AV, spyware, adware, etc. Every thing is working just fine, actually, except I can't make a movie. SP2, for me at least, is not an option.

Unless you can think of a better way, I figure I'll do a Ghost backup and then start deleting / uninstalling the programs and see how it goes....

(any more tips or hints are welcome )