Fresh Install of XP, cant finish installation due to error

I've managed to get XP to install all the way to log on however on the first use it doesnt allow me to do anything and asks me for a password. I think the password is blank but anything i punch in gives me the error:

"The specified domain either does not exist or could not be contacted.

Please try again or consult your system administrator."

I've tried Start up repair but computer crashes and restarts if i do that. I need my computer up and running asap for work.

I had win 7 ultimate x64 installed prior on a separate hard drive but i need XP to run older software for class properly. Im in college.

I would appreciate help asap. ty!

If you had Windows Ultimate before, why didn't you just use XP Mode?

As this is a Windows 7 forum, we're not really the place to ask for help with actual XP installs...

B/c the software i need to use does not work properly or not at all in XP mode. I have used XP mode before and It has limited capablities especially with programs that use administrative rights. If this isnt the place to ask about XP problems, can u direct me to the right place? Right now i am trying a full new fresh install.

fresh install worked, got my computer up and running. so this forum is done. thanks for the help :)