How to Reboot Windows XP

Over time, your computer may get bogged down with registry errors and various types of fragmented data that can cause any of your XP applications to lag. When this starts to happen, rebooting your operating system helps to restore it to its original condition and performance. 

Learning how to reboot Windows XP is easy, but there are a few steps you want to take to start the process off right.

1. In order to reboot Windows XP, have your original installation discs that came with your computer, or a new copy with a license key that will allow you to use the program once it’s installed.  Make sure you have this before you get started with the process. 
2. Before you reboot your system, backup your current settings and system information so that if anything goes wrong with the installation, you will be able to recover your previous settings at the restore point and try the reboot again.
3. If you fail to recover your previous settings, or forget to set a restore point, you may wind up losing all of your information and settings that were on the computer before your rebooted using the installation disk.
4. You’ll also want to transfer any programs and media or photos to an external device so that you are able to reinstall them after the reboot is successfully completed. Once this is done, you’re ready to reboot your system. 

Rebooting

The next step to learning how to reboot Windows XP is to actually do the rebooting process. To do this:

1. Put the installation disc into the disc drive of your computer that’s used for booting and close the drive.
2. Once this is done, restart your computer, pressing any key you’re prompted to in order to boot from the disc rather than the hard drive.
3. When you do this, your computer should let you know the progress that it’s making as the disc is processed, telling you when to insert another disc of there are any that are necessary.
4. You’ll either be asked to provide a license key if you are installing a new copy, or you’ll have to agree to the license terms by pressing the prompted key if you’re reinstalling a factory disc. Continue the process as specified. 
5. Once the license agreement is made and your XP copy is registered, you’re able to then name your computer and set your time zone, as well as set up your network for Internet access.

Once this is all done, you’ll probably be prompted to update your Windows XP and install the different service packs that are offered by Microsoft. After your updates are installed, you can reinstall any programs or data that you wish.