Acquire a Windows xp professional installation cd

So, what if the oem has gone out of business and there is no restore partition and no installation disc. How does one reinstall the OS say after a virus has rendered the system unusable?

Store the original disc in a safe place - just like you would for any valuable.  Or consider purchasing a good imaging software program, such as Acronis True Image and plan ahead.  That way, if something adverse happens and you need to reinstall Windows XP, you can easily install everything and not have to run around with your pants on fire yelling "help, what do I do now?"

Carey Frisch

I'm sorry but this is incorrect. XP installs require the installation CD type to match the Product Key type. So if the OP has an OEM machine, a matching branded OEM install disc or a generic install disc can be used. The retail disc will not work with an OEM key.

MS-MVP - Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!

Any Windows XP Pro OEM or retail disk should work fine.

Most laptops and many OEM (HP, Sony, etc.) desktop computers come with a factory restore image on a special partition on the hard drive. The factory restore process is normally invoked by pressing a Function key (like F11) at computer startup. There will be a message as to which Function key to press on the screen when you first start your computer. You can also refer to your computer manual, or the computer mftr.'s website, or contact its tech support to see how to restore your computer to factory condition since each computer mftr. does it differently - sometimes even between models.

These machines also usually have a utility with which to create physical recovery discs in case the hard drive needs to be replaced or the factory restore image is somehow damaged. If you did not create the physical recovery discs and/or damaged the recovery image, contact the computer mftr.'s tech support to order a recovery disc set. This is normally very inexpensive, around $20-25.

If you have a generic-built computer and originally purchased XP at retail, to replace the disc:

To request replacement hardware or software, contact the Microsoft Supplemental Parts team. You must be in possession of the product (if it is damaged or defective) and be able to provide proof of purchase. The customer service representative will advise you of any replacement costs or shipping and handling fees that may be charged. If a product is no longer under warranty, the replacement item may no longer be available.

In the United States and Canada, you can reach the Microsoft Supplemental Parts team at the contact numbers that are listed here:

United States: (800) 360-7561, Monday through Friday, 5:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Pacific Time.

Canada: (800) 933-4750, Monday through Friday, 5:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Pacific Time.

How to replace Microsoft software or hardware, order service packs, and replace product manuals:

http://support.microsoft.com/?scid=kb;en-us;326246&x=13&y=10

If you have an OEM version of Windows (Pre-installed Operating System), you will need to contact your computer manufacturer since support comes from the OEM, not Microsoft.

MS-MVP - Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!

Hi, 

Do you have receipt of purchase?

If it is an OEM you will need to contact the manufacturer.