- 1). Put your Windows XP installation disk into your CD or DVD drive and restart the computer.
- 2). Enter your computer's basic input output system, or BIOS. Computer and motherboard manufacturers use many different types of BIOS, so the access method varies based on your BIOS version. Most computer boot up sequences indicate the key you need to press in order to enter BIOS or your boot order options screen.
- 3). Choose the "Advanced Options" or "Boot" options in your BIOS. Different BIOS use different sections for the boot order. Adjust the boot order so that your CD or DVD drive is at the top of the list. Press "F10" to save these settings and restart your computer.
- 4). Press any key during the boot up sequence when you see "Press any key to boot from CD."
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