Hi John, LOL! That's exactly how I felt when I first typed FORMAT C: I don't have anything against stiff drinks, but you probably already know that Windows XP would NEVER allow you to format your real C: drive, assuming that is the drive that XP boots from. Keep your courage up - you're almost there. Nick ----------------- Original message: Thanks Nick, I'm installing Virtual PC from a FreeDos ISO and all works just as you describe. I have a virtual C: drive and a virtual A: drive, HOWEVER. When faced with : "Format C:\" my fist froze. Tried to hit "Enter" and my paralysed finger quivered, but wouldn't do it. No matter how I told my fingers that this wasn't the *real* C-drive they just went on strike. I am therefore very encouraged by your success. Perhaps I'll try again after a few stiff drinks. :-) John W.