For several of the tasks related to reinstalling Windows XP, you’ll need to be able to start your computer from a boot CD. Most PCs are set up to boot from CD, if there’s a bootable one in the drive by default, but sometimes this setting is overridden in the BIOS. If this is the case, your computer will continue to boot from its hard drive, starting up in Windows. To change this, you’ll need to alter your BIOS settings.
Start your computer, pressing Del repeatedly to enter the BIOS. BIOSes vary, so watch for notices during boot if this key doesn’t give you access. Once in the BIOS, search for the boot options. Modify your boot sequence so that your CD ROM drive is the first or second boot device. It must take a higher position than your hard drive or the CD will never be able to intervene during boot. Once your boot priority is set, choose to save your changes and exit. You can normally do this by pressing F10 or another designated key. When you confirm your choice your PC will restart.
If your PC won’t boot from CD, you may need to alter the BIOS settings.
