restoring windows xp to factory w/o cd

[chaosor]

So our ancient Windows 2000 computer is going bad on us. On top of that, its using an ethernet jack in my house that I need for my new Dual TV tuner. So, I want to reset our Windows XP desktop, but we can't find the disk, or the key. We basically want to reset the desktop without needing to take it into a computer store to get fixed. So any suggestions?

 

Also, how much do you think it would cost to have a tv and ethernet jack installed somewhere in my house?

Edited December 27, 2012 by chaosor

[Byz]

There is a system restore feature on windows XP, check under system tools. Also, I believe when you boot the pc, there will be a screen that says "Press f11 for recovery options" or something along those lines.

 

I found this quick guide on it, though I remember it looked a bit different for me when I did it.

http://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-backup-registry/

[20000_Posts]

There is a system restore feature on windows XP, check under system tools. Also, I believe when you boot the pc, there will be a screen that says "Press f11 for recovery options" or something along those lines.

 

I found this quick guide on it, though I remember it looked a bit different for me when I did it.

http://www.online-te...ackup-registry/

The registry isn't what needs to be fixed. That won't do anything.

 

Windows XP is ancient by now so of course there's very few ways it's actually convenient. If you can't just pirate a copy of Windows XP (don't know how you couldn't, literally all of them activate. I've got some six computers on the same one) then just buy an OEM copy of XP on amazon or ebay

 

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=windows%20xp%20oem

 

http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_sacat=0&_from=R40&_nkw=windows+xp+oem&rt=nc&LH_BIN=1