Get mad ... Get a new computer ... Hope you like your house!
I know the frustrations of dogs that just don't hunt.
First, lets assume that you're system IS corrupted in some way and that it needs something beyond a setting or two put right. In that case, you lose nothing of value by wiping your disk.
But hold on ...
You've been using this system for some time. You've probably stored some stuff which you wouldn't want to disappear along with your bad Win95. It is this non-system stuff which you'll need to store safely for later use.
Here's the challenge ...
Computers come with a Windows CD. They also come with a set of files, usually on an additional CD, supplied by the manufacturer (Not Microsoft) to enable Windows to exploit the hardware features of each machine. Typically, this extra CD will contain drivers for the video, sound, CD/DVD, modem, SCSI, or any other special features in your computer.
Make absolutely certain you have the files you need available before you destroy your current copies! I cannot emphasise this enough.
Steps ...
First, use your tape to make a full backup of everything. Worst case is you'll need to return to what you've got now, warts and all. At least it works. (A bit) As well, make a backup of your 'personal' stuff. (Two backups, one full, one 'personal')
Second, make a bootable floppy. This floppy must 'see' your CD and your tape. No point having a backup if you can't use it.
Third, put the 'tools' onto this floppy. FORMAT, FDISK, SCANDISK, EDIT, and any others you think you may need, such as the program to restore from your backup. Richard has posted on this thread suggested contents for this floppy a few weeks ago. Make sure it boots and the tools work. (Contain support files too)
Next, try reloading Windows ON TOP of your current system. Often Windows refreshes itself and picks up your current drivers and stuff. If this works, it'll save you hours, so it's worth trying.
If a fresh Windows doesn't do the trick, you'll need to format your disk and reload windows onto a clean disk. If you need to do this, please post again. It's quite a job.
Cheers, PW.
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