Manually Reinstall Your Windows XP Operating System on DELL Computer

1. Back up all data needed from the old Installation.
The Windows XP Files & Settings Transfer Wizard could be used.

2. Remove all non-assential pheripharals
Except for the monitor, keyboard, and mouse, remove all external peripherals including:


Scanner
Printer
Modem or Network cables
Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)
USB flash drive or other external Hard Drive
Any other external devices (e.g., USB-attached devices)
Remove the computer from the docking station, if you are using one.

3. Prepare your computer for reinstallation.

The Dell Operating System Reinstallation CD/DVD,
The Dell™ Reinstallation CD for Microsoft® Windows® XP,
The Dell™ Reinstallation DVD for Windows® Vista,
The Dell Resource CD/DVD,
Any application install disks,
Any software and/or documentation for your Internet service connection,
Any install discs for any external devices (such as a printer) and internal devices added to the computer after it was shipped by Dell.

4. Reinstall the operating system from the OS Setup Disk.

5. Install Dell drivers and utilities.

The drivers for your Dell computer can be installed from the ResourceCD/DVD or from the Dell Drivers and Downloads page.

Actual system configurations may vary. The list below is an overview of the correct order to install drivers on Dell desktop and laptop systems. After reinstalling the operating system, follow the order listed when reinstalling drivers. It is recommended that you print this list for referral when installing drivers

NOTE - Some devices may not work if they are not installed in the proper order, please use the list below and install the drivers in the proper order.

NOTE - To select the correct drivers, you need to know what components are installed on your computer. To find out what components are installed on your computer, refer to the Dell Knowledge Base Article: "How to Determine Which Components are in Your Computer" Article ID: 324898.

1) Desktop System Software (DSS) or Notebook System Software (NSS) - A vital utility that provides critical updates and patches for the operating system. If you are reinstalling the operating system or updating all the computer’s drivers, it is imperative that this software be installed first. Currently, the DSS and NSS are not required for systems with Windows Vista installed. This is located under the System and Configuration Utilities Category on the Drivers and Downloads page

2) Chipset - Helps Windows control system board components and controllers. This is located under the Chipset Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.

3) Video Adapter - Enhances video performance. This is located under the Video Adapter Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.

4) Network Interface Card (NIC) - Enhances the network controller for Internet or network access. This is located under the Network Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.
5) Audio Adapter - Enables and enhances the audio controller. This is located under the Audio Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.

6) Modem - Allows dialup capability. This is located under the Communication Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.

7) Wireless Network Card - Enables and enhances the wireless network controller. This is located under the Network Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.

8) Touchpad, Pointer, Trackstick, Mice, and Keyboards - Enhances the pointing device features. This is located under the Mouse & Keyboards Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.

9) Other Devices

a) Bluetooth® ModuleThis is located under the Communication Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.

b) Dell Wireless Mobile Broadband Cards This is located under the Communication Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.

c) PCMCIA/Smartcard controllerThis is located under the Security Category on the Drivers and Downloads page.

6. Connect your computer to the internet or network.

7. Install critical and recommended Windows Updates.

8. Install your applications.

9. Install your third-party hardware and software drivers.

10. Restore your personal files and data from backups