A Question About Re-installing Xp

[Mr Motivator]

Ahoy.

My pc is full of viruses I think. I can't successfully use ANY web search engine, I get stupid adverts etc and sometime accessing websites is almost impossible.

I have XP home edition on here, and I have a disc with XP pro.

1) Can I use my XP HOME cd key with the pro cd? I have the pro key aswell, just wondering.

2) I have a LOT of programs on here, if I use the repair option on the CD will it keep the programs?

3) If not, is there anyway I can use my external hard drive to back up the programs before doing a full re-install?

Hmms!

[NicP]

Ahoy.

My pc is full of viruses I think. I can't successfully use ANY web search engine, I get stupid adverts etc and sometime accessing websites is almost impossible.

I have XP home edition on here, and I have a disc with XP pro.

1) Can I use my XP HOME cd key with the pro cd? I have the pro key aswell, just wondering.

2) I have a LOT of programs on here, if I use the repair option on the CD will it keep the programs?

3) If not, is there anyway I can use my external hard drive to back up the programs before doing a full re-install?

Hmms!

As far as im away you cannot use your home key.

[Muel]

If it offers the repair option then it will keep all your programs and settings. The only problem is that some viruses latch onto your programs, not the OS.

Can't you just run a virus scan and spyware scan?

[aener]

Get Krisboats to post in here. He'll give you a 40,000 line answer that'll leave you wondering what the hell your questions were.