Reformatting: need some pointers/answers.

[Andvari]

First of all, the most important question... If the same copy of Windows XP Pro can't be installed on 2 seperate computers, how is it going to know I'm reformatting and not trying to install on a seperate computer? I won't have to register again will I? How does that work?

Now, what about blaster worms and other "fun" things that seem to find their way onto a computer the second it steps into the internet? Should I reformat and setup windows while having my cable modem unhooked? And therefore should I have patches/antiviruses/updates on a CD so I can install them without having to be on the internet? That way I could already be protected before my computer gets connected to the net.

If the above is the case, what patches would I need and where could I get them? Is there any way to download all the Windows Update things to a CD instead of having to install them from the Windows Update site?

You get the idea I hope. Any other useful tips for reformatting?

(I've reformatted before, it was just many years ago when I used Win98, so it's been a while)

 

[cronos]

they have this 'algorithm' that's supposed to check the variation of hardware between the two system, and if the variation is too much, it's gonna reject your subsequent activation. yes. this also gives a lot of trouble to people who upgrade a lot.

yes. you should secure your windows XP installation first before you connect it to the internet.

from the windowsupdate.com there is a way to download the security patches to a local computer. also microsoft released this quarterly (or bi-annually) cd containing all the updated security patches that you can order for free.

 

[tm37]

Originally posted by: saxguy
they have this 'algorithm' that's supposed to check the variation of hardware between the two system, and if the variation is too much, it's gonna reject your subsequent activation. yes. this also gives a lot of trouble to people who upgrade a lot.

yes. you should secure your windows XP installation first before you connect it to the internet.

from the windowsupdate.com there is a way to download the security patches to a local computer. also microsoft released this quarterly (or bi-annually) cd containing all the updated security patches that you can order for free.

Link?

 

[KGB]

I think you're referring to THIS.

 

[tm37]

Originally posted by: KGBMAN
I think you're referring to THIS.

THX Ordered

 

[Andvari]

I notice that CD covers updates only up to October 2003. Are there any other recent important security updates I should nab before reformatting?

 

[Andvari]

Hmm, I was browsing these forums and saw that some people encountered weird problems after reformatting. I've reformatted before, like I said, just not on this computer. I'd hate to reformat and end up with a slower computer or BSoD's or something.

I think I noticed that the ones having problems were computers they bought like Dells and such. I built my part by part, so I installed the OS and all the drivers myself. I still have all the CDs that came with the hardware too. So by me reformatting, technically, it should be as if I were installing it all for the first time after I built it right? I *shouldn't* experience unexplained problems right? Then again, half the problems that occur on computers are unexplained.

I'm just kinda feeling the "if it's not broke don't fix it" vibe. There's only 1 real reasons that I want to reformat anyway. I've tried everything to clear certain websites from my internet history, but they remain. Other than that I'm just in the mood to reformat.

 

[LoneWolf1]

Originally posted by: tm37

Originally posted by: saxguy
they have this 'algorithm' that's supposed to check the variation of hardware between the two system, and if the variation is too much, it's gonna reject your subsequent activation. yes. this also gives a lot of trouble to people who upgrade a lot.

yes. you should secure your windows XP installation first before you connect it to the internet.

from the windowsupdate.com there is a way to download the security patches to a local computer. also microsoft released this quarterly (or bi-annually) cd containing all the updated security patches that you can order for free.

Link?

Another option for securing your fresh install is to use AutoPatcher.