[Inactive] ransomware

[Broni]

Possibly bad CD/bad burn.
Are you using CD-R disk?

Try to create new CD.

[Ned Ludd]

we are using the original xp cd ....is that what you're refering to?

[Broni]

Is this genuine full XP version or some repair disk?

If you have another XP computer see if you can boot that one with the same CD.

[Ned Ludd]

it is the genuine full xp version as far as i can tell.....when the computer was purchased xp had not come out yet. so dell sent the computer loaded with ME. when xp came out they (dell) sent us the xp disc to install.on the disc it says " MS Windows XP Home Edition" - "version 2002" "For distribution with a new PC only. For product support, contact the manufacturer of your PC." it gives setup instructions as well....

[Broni]

If you have another XP computer see if you can boot that one with the same CD.

.....

[Ned Ludd]

sorry, forgot to mention in my last post that the other computer we own runs vista...no other XP computers

[Broni]

We have to check if that CD is good.
Ask around. Some friend must have XP computer. See if you can try that CD on their computer. There is no risk involved. We just need to see if that other computer will boot to your CD.

[Ned Ludd]

ok, thanks, i'll check around. it may take a day or two but i'll keep you updated....

[Broni]

[Ned Ludd]

I've exhausted all possibilities with frineds, co-workers, etc. I even went to a computer recycling place- that also sells refurbished computers - and cannot find anyone willing/able to boot from my disc. The guy at the recycling place said he'd sell me a refurbished Dell with XP pro loaded, keyboard, screen and mouse for $140. I'm thinking since mine is so old and old programs, etc. i might be better off just buying a newer one.

Unless we can attempt something else - assuming this disc is OK. ??? The disc looks to be in fine shape upon visual inspection..not even fine scratches, and we've used it subsequent to initial installation to re-boot.


(Is there a limit put on these discs by MS so one cannot load it more than X number of times ? As we've re-booted with this disc a few times in the past.)

[Broni]

Unfortunately I'm out of options here.

Reinstalling Windows seems to be the only viable option.

[Ned Ludd]

if we assume the disc is good, which i believe to be true, what would be the next step?

Also, I want to thank you for all of your time, assistance and advice so far, you've been extremely helpful and patient.

[Broni]

Here: http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html

[Ned Ludd]

Here: http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html

doesn't work......computers are really not worth the time required to keep them runnig. Time to toss the thing in the garbage where they belong. Life has been so much easier/better without them anyway. (People can't claim they didn't get your email if you call them instead, etc.) It has been freeing to not have one.

[Broni]

......