Reformating with Windows XP

[RichieB16]

OK, I'm wanting to wipe my hard drive and reinstall my OS and everything.  The reason being is that I downloaded an update for Windows that I don't like and eventhough I think I know which one it is I can't seem to remove it.  So, I know how to reformat and reinstall my OS-but my question is how will I reregister XP.  Since, I have already registered it-can I unregister it or what.  I'm affraid that if I delete my hard drive and reinstall windows I may end up not being able to register XP (since it is already registered-eventhough it will be on the same computer).  Does anyone know how to take care of this-or if it is even a problem?

[Paz]

 I had to re-format one of my XP machines and I don't remember having a problem with the registration, you are already registered, so if I remember correctly, when you go to do the registration process it will activate XP without any problems at all, it may even tell you that you have already registered this version of windows.
 But it's not going to prevent you from using XP, otherwise everytime a PC needed the HD re-formatted you would have to buy a new copy of XP, and oh man, how bad would that suck!

[Chi_San]

There is a very simple solution to this problem.

Insert your XP CD into the drive, and reboot. When prompted to boot to CD, slect yes. When windows Setup is finished loading, press Enter to continue installing Windows. Agree to the TOU, and then, instead of Pressing ESC to remove your old install of Windows and install a new copy, press R to repair a previous install.  Windows will reinstall all core components, core OS files, and basically put a fresh install of XP on your machine. It won't, however, remove any programs, some of your settings, or any files you have on the machine. Run Windows Update again, and this time choose what you install wisely.

[Scottler]

Have you tried a system restore?  I'd try that before reformatting.

It's not the best solution, only the last one.  ;)