<p>I was browsing through some old threads about reformating hard drives but unfortunately, I did not come across one specifically for Windows XP without the CD. I couldn't find reliable procedures on the internet and was hoping one of you could help me out. I no longer have the CDs that came with the computer and was wondering if it was still possible to reformat the hard drive and reinstall Windows and all the appropriate drivers (Is this all I need to re-install? I don't plan on keeping any of my personal files--Word, Pictures, etc.) Thanks in advance</p>
<p>P.S.- This Windows XP was installed over Windows ME.</p>
<p>If your computer can still boot to Windows, you can try a system restore: <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/helpandsupport/getstarted/ballew_03may19.mspx%5B/url%5D">http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/helpandsupport/getstarted/ballew_03may19.mspx</a></p>
<p>If you can't run System Restore to a point where your computer is stable, you'll have to find/buy the installation cds.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>Re-formatting the HD is serious business...</p>
<p>Why exactly do you need it?</p>
<p>If you have a few viruses that you want to get rid of (and your virus protection software somehow can't get rid of it for some reason), another step you should consider would be to boot your OS into safe mode and delete the viruses from there (you would have to know which file(s) the virus is in though).</p>
<p>To answer your original question, you're going to have to get a CD as michuncle said</p>
<p>Even if I buy another Windows XP CD, won't I still need to reinstall all the drivers? I think I may be able to obtain a Windows XP CD. Thanks.</p>