Windows XP: getting rid of illegal XP

Don't reinstall ME....no need for this step

WAArnold is correct I just wanted to follow up & further elaborate.

There is NO need to install ME before upgrading to XP. If you have an XP upgrade CD during the installation it will ask you to insert a previous version of Windows operating system (like ME, 98) it will verify that you own or "borrowed" a previous Operating system and ask you to re-insert the XP upgrade disc. So there is ZERO, NO, NONE, NADA, NINE' need to install ME first.

If you computer is able to boot from the CD, (this is usually an adjustable feature that can be turned on in the system's BIOS) but try it first... put the XP upgrade CD in your CD drive, exit out of the menu that will auto load if you are currently in Windows, and restart your computer. If your system is setup to, it will begin the installation/re-installation process of XP. You will want to format the drive to truly get a "fresh start"

If you computer doesn't start the installation process (booting from the CD first and instead boots into windows from your HD) then you'll need to read the instruction for entering the BIOS / Setup. Watch the screen as the computer starts (Usually displayed then (examples F2, F8, F10, Esc. or others)otherwise read your manual. Once in the BIOS, then look for Boot Order or Boot List something along those lines. You want to temporarily have the computer boot from the CD. You can temporarily tell it not to boot from any other devices. After you complete the re-installation process, remember to go back into the BIOS and return the settings to the way you had them or want them.

If you can get someone to chaperon you in the BIOS. Many systems like Dell, HP, etcetera lock down 80% of the BIOS features to try and keep you from making mistakes that can cause problems...but BIOS is still a more advanced settings tool so handle with care & don't go changing with out understanding/ or at least knowing what you changed and what to set it back to.