Background

• You will overwrite all of your existing data and applications if you perform a full reinstallation of Windows XP. A repair install is a good alternative, since it should leave everything except the system files untouched.
  
  

Process

• You need to have your original Windows XP Home installation disk in order to perform a repair installation. Carefully follow the instructions that Microsoft makes available on its website. It is important that you have backups of all of your data before attempting this procedure, although the process is not intended to delete any data files.
  
  

Warnings

• Microsoft advises of a number of possible scenarios where performing a repair installation is not recommended, so ensure you read the information it provides thoroughly. Consider hiring a qualified computer technician to do the repair for you if you have any doubts about the procedure.