Tom's Hardware > Forum > Windows XP > Windows XP General Discussion > Repair Installation & Existing Programs
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Hey all - I know how to perform a repair installation on XP, but since this will be my first time doing so, I was wondering what to expect from my existing programs? I know the data itself (Quicken files, pictures, etc.) will not be lost, but will I need to reinstall the programs anyway to re-introduce them to Windows? Will the repair installation only replace the Windows system files, or will the entire registry be impacted?

I'm just trying to get an idea if I'll need to start gathering all of my old install CD's that I haven't touched in years. Thanks for your help.

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Hi,

The repair process simply recopies any missing or corrupt windows files. Your applications and registry should not be affected. No need to reinstall anything.

The only thing to watch out for is the Windows CD you are using for the repair process. If you are running XP SP2 and the CD is XP SP1 then it may copy "older" files than you originally had. Try to get hold of a XP CD with SP2 slip-streamed.

How to create a XP SP2 slip-stream CD

Reply to hubbardt

You can never guarantee anything, but I have never had issues with repair installs impacting my installed programs.

A repair install only replaces windows system files. Your programs should still work like normal and I don't even think I had to restore any settings.

I imagine the registry will change, but it typically won't effect installed programs.

Again, nothing is guaranteed. You should always have your important files backed up in case something goes wrong.

Reply to dmroeder
Tom's Hardware > Forum > Windows XP > Windows XP General Discussion > Repair Installation & Existing Programs
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