You can perform an "Upgrade" to Windows XP from Windows 98
by selecting the default "Upgrade" option during the initial setup phase.
The other setup option, "New Installation", should only be selected if
your wish to reformat your drive (thus removing Windows 98 and all
files), or install Windows XP on an available empty drive or partition
and create a dual-boot scenario.
Do not make the mistake of selecting "New Installation" and proceed
to install Windows XP in the same partition as Windows 98. The
end result will be instability and conflicts.
If you wish to upgrade to Windows XP, read the following:
HOW TO: Prepare to Upgrade Windows 98 or
Windows Millennium Edition to Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;316639
Before upgrading any existing Windows installation, it would be prudent to
run the Upgrade Advisor for Windows XP. This tool will report what hardware
or software may be incompatible with Windows XP. If you follow the Upgrade
Advisor's recommendations, you should not have any problem upgrading to
Windows XP.
If you fail to utilize the Upgrade Advisor, you may run into incompatibility issues.
Just inserting the Windows XP Upgrade CD in the CD Drive and selecting
"upgrade" is not going to give you the desired result. You must "prepare and
plan" your computer before beginning the upgrade process.
Windows XP Upgrade Advisor
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;307726
It is imperative that you have the latest BIOS update installed. Visit the support
website of the manufacturer of your computer or motherboard for instructions
on updating your computer's BIOS.
Accessing Motherboard BIOS
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/bios_manufacturer.htm
Also, physically disconnect all your peripheral hardware devices,
especially USB devices (not including your mouse, keyboard or
monitor). Uninstall any antivirus program, too!
HOW TO: Install Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=316941
Most of all, *** BACKUP *** your critical files and documents!
Note: Laptop computers require specialized hardware drivers.
After upgrading to Windows XP, visit the support website of
the manufacturer of your laptop and download all the Windows
XP drivers designed to work with your specific laptop model.
--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User
Be Smart! Protect your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/security/protect/
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| I am currently running W98 SE that is an upgrade install from W95. Will I be
| able to do a clean install of Windows XP (upgrade CD)? I have both the W98
| SE upgrade CD and the original W95 CD (and keys for both). I assume(?) at
| worst case I can perform an upgrade to XP from W98 SE, right?
