Topics

1

General Computer Support / Trying to format dell pc running XP.

« on: April 06, 2016, 04:20:38 am »

Hi Shane, it's been a few years but can I avail of your knowledge and expertise again, please ?

I am attempting to format my 12 year old Dell pc, running XP,... clean format.

 When I get to the page I need, which is:

 "To quit setup without installing Windows XP, press F3"

 I get the message: "Windows XP is not completely setup on your computer. If you quit setup now, you will need to run setup again to setup Windows XP.
 To continue setup press enter To quit, press F3"

 Clicking on Enter takes me back to the above page, while F3 restarts my pc.

 I have all, but one, of the original discs and I ran them again hoping that would solve the problem without success.

I can access the net from my downstairs pc, wi-fi, running Windows 10 but can't open any of my browsers. I do this with the help of a dongle and wi-fi adapter.

I appreciate any help you can give Shane.

Thank you,
Cheers.
Tom.

2

General Computer Support / Failure to update windows 8.1

« on: April 04, 2014, 07:44:46 am »

Hi, I am running windows 8.1 and every time (at least 50 attempts) I try to update it goes to about 35% before  I get the message "Failure configuring windows update, undoing changes, do not turn your computer off" This goes on for about 15 minutes before eventually going back to my desktop. I know, looking at the net I am not alone in this but some people have managed to fix this problem throught various means. I have tried a lot of them (too many to mention) I must also say that "Murphys Law" was written especially with me in mind.   

I have contacted Microsoft about this problem and the young lady suggested I do a refresh. The problem is, I made a recover flash drive but I can't remember if I made it with 8 or 8.1 so I am scared to try a refresh or a restore to factory condition in case it asks for my windows 8 restore disc (flash drive) and I have only the 8.1...or vice versa. I am also  less than 20% computer literate.

Any suggestions, except for getting the hammer out, would be most welcome....I am going bonkers !!!

Thank you,
Tom.