Q: I have Windows XP. Dell Inspiron 6000. I know I have registry problems, & also Error code 19 with the DVD+RW, & the DVD+RW drive is corrupt & missing. I'm infected with Trojan.Zlob & who knows what else! None of the spyware, malware, trojan, adware, etc. removals work. Can you tell me STEP-BY-STEP how to uninstall & reinstall my OS? I'm afraid I'm going to lose all my important programs. I also have Microsoft Office 2003 that I bought, & I can't find the security key. I can't restore my computer, & I can't restart it in safe mode. I'm afraid that I won't be able to have internet access if I uninstall & reinstall the OS. I do have Wi-Fi. Uninstalling & reinstalling seems like the ONLY option, since nothing is working, & I can't afford to go to a technician. Also, my computer is almost 3 yrs. old.
A: Reinstalling the OS is simple if you have your OEM CD handy (which you should). You will need to backup all your documents/photos/emails etc onto a cd/usb stick or other storage media. If you only have one partition on your disk all your software will go as well, so make sure you have all the installers any licences handy for them. Also note down all your wireless settings and passwords as well. A guide for backing up your office 2003 activation can be found here: http://www.flexbeta.net/forums/lofiversion/index.php/t3669.html Other than that all you do is put the XP cd in, restart, then go through the setup program (delete, than recreate your XP partition). It takes about half an hour (a bit longer if you have lots of software) As for your audio, the only thing I can think of is that the Windows Audio Service is not running. To check go to start >> run >> services.msc and scroll down to Windows Audio Services