Not an easy one to Search for - or too easy, given that it throws up a whole buch of unrelated threads.Due to unfathomable system hangs in FS (when in in complex aircraft for more than 90 minutes) or video-editing, I plan an XP format and reinstall.FS9 is on a separate partition. I have a gazilllion payware sceneries and planes. I have a networked laptop running AS, RC and FSC.Is there a standard way to "re-connect" FS to the new install? I was thinking about Reg entries and all that payware with its licences and stuff. I spose the payware will have to be reinstalled from scratch.ThanksNicholas

I'd say a clean install of FS9 is in order, especially if you're using more advanced payware like PMDG, Level-D, etc. They make a few registry entries and you'd spend more time repairing the installations than it would take to reinstall them. Just my two cents.

Not an easy one to Search for - or too easy, given that it throws up a whole buch of unrelated threads.Due to unfathomable system hangs in FS (when in in complex aircraft for more than 90 minutes) or video-editing, I plan an XP format and reinstall.FS9 is on a separate partition. I have a gazilllion payware sceneries and planes. I have a networked laptop running AS, RC and FSC.Is there a standard way to "re-connect" FS to the new install? I was thinking about Reg entries and all that payware with its licences and stuff. I spose the payware will have to be reinstalled from scratch.ThanksNicholas

Hi Nicholas,if FS is on a separate partition then it's relatively easy. After installing the OS rename the FS folder to FS_Good. Then reinstall FS again ensuring you choose the original folder name - FS. Then launch it ensuring everything is okay.Exit FS and rename the newly created FS folder to FS_Temp and rename FS_Good back to FS. All the registry entries will be present and correct. Finally, when you're happy with your original installation delete FS_Temp.I've done this last year when I built a new machine. I, like you, would hate to have to reinstall all my 3rd party stuff. You may have to reinstall 3rd party aircraft like PMDG but all the scenery will be fine.

Hi Nicholas,if FS is on a separate partition then it's relatively easy. After installing the OS rename the FS folder to FS_Good. Then reinstall FS again ensuring you choose the original folder name - FS. Then launch it ensuring everything is okay.Exit FS and rename the newly created FS folder to FS_Temp and rename FS_Good back to FS. All the registry entries will be present and correct. Finally, when you're happy with your original installation delete FS_Temp.I've done this last year when I built a new machine. I, like you, would hate to have to reinstall all my 3rd party stuff. You may have to reinstall 3rd party aircraft like PMDG but all the scenery will be fine.

I also imagine that add-on programs will not work properly, ie FE, AS, GEPro, etc...so those probably need to be reinstalled if you wanted to enter the actual programs themselves.

Thanks Ray - seems relatively painless.What about red1

Thanks Ray - seems relatively painless.What about red1