Reinstall drivers, basic software and applications
Install drivers hardware
Here is a good definition of what a driver is or does: http://pcsupport.about.com/od/termsag/g/term_driver.htm
If you reinstalled your windows with a recovery DVD, all drivers will be automatically installed.
For Windows XP: you go to device manager and check if there are any devices with a question mark. This means the driver is not installed. Next check if that hardware is on the mainboard or not. If it is on the mainboard, you will need the mainboard reference to find the appropriate driver. How to: http://www.wikihow.com/Find-Documentation-for-Your-Motherboard-Online
If the device is not on the mainboard, for example a pci card or 3D accelerator card, you will need to know the exact model and again go to the manufacturers website to download the appropriate driver.
More info can be found here:
http://www.wikihow.com/Install-Drivers-for-%22Unknown-Devices%22-in-Wind...
Windows updates
As soon as your network card is installed, install your windows updates. This is really the first and most important step for security and bug fixes. Although you probably selected to automatically update during the windows setup, it is not a bad idea to start the update process manually as soon as you have an internet connection. Especially if you reinstalled your windows with a two year old recovery DVD. Install them before you start surfing on the internet. Open internet explorer and go to tools-windows update to force start the update process.
Antivirus
The next most important step after reinstalling your windows. There are free versions out there that work fine if you are on a tight budget on a non commercial basis. However there are some advantages in buying.
Also explain advantage of paid antivirus bundled with spyware remover, parental control etc.
Some additional useful applications to install right away. It is useful to install them right away after reinstalling your pc because sooner or later you will need them to do something on the internet. It is annoying to be interrupted at that time.
Java
To install Java, type “download java” into google or follow this link: http://www.java.com/en/download/index.jsp
Flash and shockwave
With your freshly installed pc, go to http://www.adobe.com/products/flashplayer/ and http://www.adobe.com/shockwave/download/
Acrobat Reader
PDF file format is very widely used, rather sooner than later, you will need it. http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html
Office
Most people use office: well known programs are included such as word, excel, outlook and powerpoint. You will need your office product key to install it from your installation CD. If you do not have a product key or licence for office you might consider buying one here.
You might consider OpenOffice as an alternative to Microsoft Office.
Advantages:
* Free & open source
* Decent clone of MS office.
Disadvantages:
* Some formats like *.docx are not compatible. Though most of the formats you will ever use can be opened easily.
* Some advanced features of MS office are missing in Open office.
Yes you can install OO and MS O together.
