Hi Demetri; I too have three partitions; one for OS (Win 98SE) and all programs, one for the swap file, and one for data. I have numerous times with Win 95 ,98 and 98SE reformated my C: partition and reinstalled OS and all software. I always backup thoroughly, but have never lost any data on D: or E: partitions. I suggest a total reinstall of all software on your first and second partition. I also make a list of all software and drivers that I have updated or downloaded. I keep a directory called "archives" with much of this software in it. Good luck. Bill Demetri Kolokotronis wrote: > I have been advised to reformat and reinstall OS, Win98. on H.D. that has > three partitions. First has OS and only those programs where there was no > option to install to another drive. Second has programs, third has data. > > Can I just format and reinstall OS on first partition, and not lose data? > If not, can I do it if I first uninstall all programs on second drive > that have registry entries? > > I do not have Partition Magic. I do have Ranish Partition Manager, if > that would be necessary to use.-- O Canada! Working together to create a more suitable national anthem! http://www3.sympatico.ca/ablee The NOSPIN Group is now offering Free PC Tech support at our newest website: http://freepctech.com