if you format c: then the files will get wiped (the nature of a format) DO NOT FORMAT. Boot computer from ME startup disk and start setup like you suggested.. C:\WINDOWS\OPTIONS\CABS\setup.exe if that dont work... I don't know if it will work as it's been a very long time since I used ME, but the best option would be to burn what you think are the ME setup files on to CD, don't forget you will need to add the boot information though, there are guides on how to do that. To be able to burn files to CD without wiping the files to begin with you'll either need to install the drive as a slave in another PC or use a live boot disk with CD recording support. if you have a certificate of authenticy on the side of your computer, the easiest method would be to download a copy of the ME installation CD, but make sure you use your own serial during install.. as far as I know it's the serial which makes the install legitimate, not the disk.