Windows XP Crashed, can I reboot using Windows XP professional?

[Matt33098]

I had my computer built, and it had windows xp pre installed. But i didnt get the disc, and stupidly didnt create a boot disc. Never the less, the computer has crashed or has been attacked by a virus. It now will go as far as the first few screens, where it asks for system disc or boot disc. I do have a friend who is offering to sell me windows Xp professional, but Im not sure if it will boot up with this? or if there is anyway of getting round this?

[Ken_T]

Try loading in Safe Mode first, if you put another copy of windows on it will re-install the operating system

[sprakie]

Hmm, sounds to me like your computer need reformatting, which means you will lose everything that is currently on your computer.