Lost all programs and files

I have a 4 1/2 year old HP laptop which wasn't booting and tired a repair with the operating disc. I ******* up, of course, because when it didn't work, I ended up reinstalling xp and everything was missing. Maybe in the back of my mind, I thought I needed a new laptop. Nevertheless, how do you go about starting with just windows xp, if I want to try and use the laptop again? I assume all the new updates since 2005 have to be installed and I need to get a disc for IE8 so I can get on the internet. And how will I know if the computer is, in fact, useable? Thanks for any direction you might give me, a not too bright old man.

 

Hi and welcome to the WindowsBBS community,

First, what is the model of the laptop? Check the manufacturer's label underneath, because it might only tell you the series number on the front.

Most often, instructions for reinstalling Windows are in the User Guide/manual. It will, most likely, take the system back to it's factory condition and you will lose your data. HP computers, from my experience, usually only have a "recovery" system, they don't supply an actual Windows installation disk. What are the details of the OS disk you used? You might have trouble getting the proper drivers unless you use the HP installation (recovery) system.

If you go back to the HP factory installation, check about making a set of "recovery disks ". They might get you out of trouble next time.

If Windows works now, could your data be under your old User Name (profile)? User profiles are kept in the C:\Documents and Settings folder. Try searching the hard drive for some of the files.

Matt
By the way, Internet Explorer does not "connect" you to the internet. You might not have the drivers for Ethernet/Network adapter installed.