Another Computer Help thread!

[Tsunimo]

So, I have two computers, one of which has more viruses than I can count, and can barely run.
I have decided I want to try and wipe it as completely as possible, and start anew.
It's a rather old computer, plus I have no clue how to do this without fucking it up worse, so I could use some help.
Mostly I need help with is... well I guess most of it. How to wipe it clean, what I'm going to need after I start it up again, etc.
It runs Windows XP Home Edition, and I have the disc for it, but I'm clueless as to what else I will need to get it to run again.
Thanks in advance.

 

[Tharwen]

You should be able to re-install the operating system without starting it up (and, by extension, starting up the viruses).

Put the disk in, then look for an option like 'boot menu' or 'boot from disk' before it gets to 'loading Windows'. If you find it, it should be able to guide you through the installation with the instructions on the disk.

NOTE: Only do this if you don't want any of the data from the original install.

If you want to keep your data, you'll probably have to start the computer up, compress the data, get it out of the computer, scan the crap out of it with antivirus, then put it on the computer you want it on.