If I had the Windows XP CD, I would have ried reformatting. I ain't going to some PC repair shop, all of them are my enemies. lol. When ever I do go, they always have to screw something up. I'll just download it, lol. Burn as an image to a CD. Or borrow my cousins Windows Xp home. If I do have to reformat, which is better Home or Professional, I find no differences.