where install these programs

[okeee]

Where should I install codec like dvix, xvid? In the partition which win xp is on and boot from, or another partition? I would like to install as less programs as possible on win xp partition.

[oracle128]

You can install them where you like, but some components will have to be on the XP partition (the installer will do this no matter what location you specify).

[okeee]

I see. And msn messenger, where should I install it?

[oracle128]

Ahh...anywhere you like. If the program's installer gives you a choice of where to install, then it means you can place it anywhere you want.

[okeee]

if installed on another partition than the partition I boot from, will these programs still work if partition I boot from, is formatted and win xp re installed?

[oracle128]

It depends on the program. Most commercial programs rely on the registry to operate and/or store settings (which resides on the system partition), so won't work, or will have problems, if the registry is changed. Some other programs install various files on the system partition no matter where you install them (like drivers, codecs, etc) and so won't work at all with a renewed operating system install. If you backup the registry before you format/reinstall the OS partition, you should be covered for most programs.

[okeee]

thxx for info