Don't use safe mode to install XAMPP.
Uninstall your current instance by following the methods in the XAMPP for Windows home page.
http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-windows.html#524Make sure all traces of your previous installation attempts are completely removed.
Re-install but don't use safe mode and make sure you are logged into XP with administrator privileges.
http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-windows.html#522Then after install is complete and you have started Apache and MySQL from the XAMPP Control Panel (XCP) so both are showing a green running indication, test your installation by going to
http://localhost in your browser or using the
Admin... button in the XCP.
Any errors should be investigated using the Apache log files.
It is a good idea to read the whole of the
XAMPP for Windows home page and the linked
FAQ as they both have very useful information and help.