Reinstalling Windows on netbooks

H Johnson wonders how you can reinstall Windows on a netbook that doesn't have a built-in CD-Rom drive

At some stage, usually later in a computer's life, there is no alternative to a complete OS reinstall. I can't see how this can be possibly be done for netbooks running Windows XP, even if rescue CDs were provided.
H Johnson

Do a web search and you will find that plenty of people have found ways to install Windows XP, Vista etc on netbooks without a CD drive, and there is an example at Liliputing. However, you can reinstall the operating system from an external hard drive used for backups, and many netbook buyers will already have one for their laptop or desktop PC. Some users have or will buy a USB CD-R drive to install software and do backups.

Otherwise, times have changed since Windows 95/98/SE benefited from a reinstallation after 18-24 months. I have a 2003 laptop and a 2005* desktop running Windows XP Pro, and both are still fine.

* dates corrected before posting!