Things to do before reinstalling XP

timbim_2

I want to re-install XP on my laptop, as it has become bogged down by various things I have done with it over the years. I'd like to know what I need to do before reverting to a ghost image I have of it from when it came off the production line. In particular, what do I need to do to keep my firefox records safe, so all my bookmarks, saved passwords etc. I can back up the remaining things, my photo collection I'll do through photoshop, and store that on my external disk, along with the contents of my documents and other various folders that need to be kept. I suppose I need to write down product keys etc?

Anything I've overlooked?

Thanks, I realise that may have been hard to read, sorry!

thomas01155

To keep all your FireFox settings you need to back up the folder. First of all you need to be able to see hidden files and folders.

Show Hidden Folders and Files

1. Open My Computer.
2. Go to Tools > Folder Options.
3. Select the View tab.
4. Scroll down to Hidden files and folders.
5. Select Show hidden files and folders.
6. Press ok.

Back up the Mozilla file

1. Now go to your C drive or main drive where FireFox is installed.
2. Double Click on Documents and Settings.
3. Double Click on your account.
4. Double Click Application Data.
5. Back up the Mozilla file this contains all the information you will need to paste this back into application data after you install FireFox. (If there is another Mozilla file in application data you will need to delete it before pasting the other Mozilla folder otherwise it will use the empty profile.)

chunter

1. Outlook Express - backup if you're using it
2. Backup MyDocs
3. Check "shared documents"
4. Do a windows search for all photos, music and video. Some software put the photos in their own directories outside of my docs. It'll take a couple of minutes trawling through these thousands of things but it may be worth it.
5. Backup favorites folder (internet explorer).
6. Drivers, if there's a folder on the c: driver called drivers, well worth keeping!

DCFC79

Make a note of any drivers, there should be a sticker for the xp key

spud17

Address book?

mdbarber

there is a utility for backing up various mozilla based spin offs such as firefox, "mozbackup", it does everything and is freeware

IamGeoff

I use FOXMARKS for my bookmarks.

MORPH3US

Foxmarks = legend...

Get it.

sandroad

You can reinstall windows xp without losing any of your data.

Follow the directions in this article.

XP's No-Reformat, Nondestructive Total-Rebuild Option

I do however suggest that you still backup your data but this is the easiest way to get a fresh XP install.

Hope that helps

MORPH3US

I think the OP wants to start a fresh mate to get rid of all of the other crap on his system....

I'm thinking of doing the same thing myself to be honest...