How do I Clean install/reformat from Safe Mode?

[corksil]

Hey everyone, I'm back with another question.

I have an old computer with a screwed up HDD, and I want to reformat it and do a reinstall of XP that I have. The computer does not seem to want to enter anything but safe mode, but the only problem is that (Windows 98) doesn't let me use the CD-ROM drives in safe mode. I need to A) Activate and use the CD-ROM drive/drives, or B) Fix whatever is stopping the computer from booting regularly and do a re-install from the disc.

The only catch is: The copy of XP that I have is not all alone on a disc, so I can't boot from the CD. To clear up any slight misunderstanding, here's the story. I made a backup of the LEGIT disc that I paid for, and added a few things to the disc, like ad-aware, and winRAR. As you may have guessed, this would stop the CD from booting regularly, but if I can access it, I can find and open the installer. Being the forgetful person I am, I lost the original XP CD, figuring I'd be safe with the backup.

Thanks for your help in advance!

THIS WAS ALREADY POSTED IN THE HDD FORUM, If reposting here is a mistake, mods please delete.

[EzyStvy]

Your dupe post is here:
How do I do a Reformat/Clean Install from Safe Mode?

The copy of XP that I have is not all alone on a disc

Is the "original" copy and cd key being used on another machine?

[shartken]

Best bet is to make a bootable copy of the XP cd. You need to use ISOBuster to extract a .img off the original cd. Then you can use Nero to burn it as bootable.

You can also streamline additional programs into the XP installation as well. You can make a file called add-ins and copy AD-Aware and the virus scans no problem.

Without having a bootable CD, you can't get into the XP repair or recovery console which you'll need.

[shartken]

As far as starting only in safe mode. check in msconfig to see if safe mode is selected in the boot.ini tab.