"Barebones" Windows XP?

[Guest]

I am preparing to install a new desktop system, and want to retain the 'old'
system for use only as a storage device connected to my network -- no display
or keyboard needed, etc., I'll simply be using the hard drive.

What is the absolute minimum set of Windows components I need to retain on
the 'old' system to accomplish this? Or, is there a requirement for ANY
Windows components at all on the 'old' system?

Guidance, comments will be welcomed

 

[Galen]

In windward partners had this to say:

My reply is at the bottom of your sent message:

I am preparing to install a new desktop system, and want to retain the
'old'
system for use only as a storage device connected to my network -- no
display
or keyboard needed, etc., I'll simply be using the hard drive.

What is the absolute minimum set of Windows components I need to retain on
the 'old' system to accomplish this? Or, is there a requirement for ANY
Windows components at all on the 'old' system?

Guidance, comments will be welcomed

You will need an OS of course, Windows suits fine. You can remove all sorts
of stuff - just a nice clean install of the OS will be fine for you though.
I don't think I'd recommend removing anything else, why? You won't save that
much space and the chances of it giving you trouble increase when you start
pulling stuff out.

--
Galen - MS MVP - Windows (Shell/User & IE)
http://dts-l.org/ http://kgiii.info/

"Chance has put in our way a most singular and whimsical problem, and its
solution is its own
reward." - Sherlock Holmes