BleepingComputer.com: lost restore disk

I just got out an old desktop because I was having problems with my laptop (my main computer). The desktop is crappy but it served it's purpose while I cleaned up my laptop. Now I would like to get the desktop in better working condition just so I have a good parachute. The problem is that I lost my restore disk and emachines no longer sells them. They suggested that I buy a new copy of windows. I found these instructions on how to reformat and reinstall without a disk:

http://netsecurity.about.com/od/windowsxp/...qtwinxp0829.htm

I was wondering if this is a good way to try this or if anyone has better suggestions.

This post has been edited by unnnies: 11 August 2009 - 12:05 AM

I think you misunderstood that link.

"Follow the steps below to save the activation status information and restore it once your system is rebuilt."

That procedure only bypasses reactivation, it does not reinstall XP.

XP cannot be reinstalled from within itself...you have no files on CD...you have no recovery partition.

Since it seems that you have a valid key to use XP...I can only suggest that you find someone who has an actual XP install CD for the same version (Home for Home, Pro for Pro) and ask them to burn you a copy to try with your license.

There are all sorts of vendors purporting to sell copies of restore/recovery CDs, http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=r...mp;oq=&aqi=

Louis