Can't reformat Windows XP Network drive error

[zoom8646]

This started with the BSoD errors. I tried to repair Windows XPbut had to uninstall problem Windows XP first. Removed old Windows and couldn't use recovery disk because 2nd disk had bad section and wouldn't complete install. Finally got Windows 95 boot disk and upgrade Windows XP to install. Now Windows XP is running but all Windows programs on disk won't mesh with operating system. Want to reformat c drive but can't. Use DOS A: format c: get error Unable to format network hard drive.

I have Windows 98 complete and upgrade Windows XP disk so it's not a bootable disk. Any ideas?

[patio]

You need a legit XP CD...

[zoom8646]

Thanks that's what I was afraid of.  Do you think the Windows 98 would work?

[dahlarbear]

Do you think the Windows 98 would work?

1.  Mine does...  If I'm gentle....

2.  Work for what?
     a.  As a "desktop" operating system?  Probably.  If it has the "drivers" necessary to support your hardware; or you can find the drivers for the built-in components onboard your motherboard.

     b.  As a stepping stone towards a Windows XP "upgrade" install?  Probably...

3.  Windows 95 boot disk?  You should be using Windows 98 or Windows 98 Second Edition boot disk (floppy?) - depending upon your Windows version.

4.  You should be able to partition (fdisk) and format hard drive using the appropriate Windows 98 boot floppy (see www.bootdisk.com).  I don't recall if there's a "ebd.cab" file on those disks.  If so, look there (inside the cabinet file) for any programs that may be missing and "extract" what you need.

[zoom8646]

Thanks for your help.