- 1). Disconnect your computer from all networks. Back up any data you want to keep that is contained on the partition with your Windows installation.
- 2). Insert your Windows XP CD while the computer is turned on. If you have a "blue screen of death," which is all blue and has error information on it that does not allow you to open your disk drive, you can use a straightened paperclip inserted into the small hole on the front of the drive. This hole is a powerless way to open your drive, but do not push too hard. If you are unsure where the correct hole is, don't try this.
- 3). Reboot your computer. When the reboot begins, and prior to the initial Windows screen, push the "F" key that opens your computer's boot menu. This may vary by manufacturer. For example, in most Dell computers, the F key is F12 to open the boot menu. Check with your manufacturer if you are unsure. Some computers may recognize the CD automatically and open a boot menu.
- 4). Choose the selection to boot from the disk drive that contains your Windows boot CD. Your computer will now boot from your Windows installation CD.
- 5). Select "Install Windows XP" when it finishes booting. A list of pull-down menus will be next. Select "New Windows Installation."
- 6). Press "Enter" when asked if you want to set up or repair an installation. A license agreement will come up.
- 7). Read the license agreement and press "F8" to continue. When Windows recognizes an existing installation, it will ask if you want to repair it. Press "Escape" to skip the repair, and you will be taken to a screen showing partitions on your hard drive.
- 8). Select the main partition containing your Windows installation (this may be the only partition, depending on how your drive was set up). Press "D" to delete it, and press "L" to confirm.
- 9). Select the now unpartitioned space and press "Enter" to reformat that space for Windows. When prompted, select "NTFS Formatting" and continue. This will reformat your unpartitioned space. Windows has now been removed and you can continue with the installation.
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