Multiple Instances of XP - Problem with apps and data

[Frank]

Our XP Pro SP3 installation became corrupted. We decided to install another
instance of XP. It installed fine and with no apparent problems.

The problem is that all of our programs and all of our data files remain
affiliated with the ORIGINAL windows install. Going through the 'programs'
folder shows us that our apps are still intact. Is there a SIMPLE way to
migrate all data and apps over to the new windows installation. Or is there
a simple way to delete the old windows files without destroying our data?

Thanks for your help!!!

 

[sgopus]

more detail is needed.

Did you create a new partition and install the second instance of xp on it,
or did you install the 2nd one on the same partition as the old?

simply stated you can't migrate programs from one install to another, you
have to install them again in the new instance, the data however can be
migrated, just copy it over.

 

[Frank]

Both installs are in the same partition.

So, where would I look for the data? Is there a common folder name? Is
there a slick way of doing a copy? Most of our art is included in the data
we use daily. We have copies of all the programs and many were due for
updates. Again, any help is appreciated - very,very appreciated!!

 

[sgopus]

multiple installs in the same partition can cause problems, unless you did a
format (which it sounds as if you didn't) your data should still be there,
you just need to search for it. I'm sorry to say it's not going to be easy
to get your data over to the new install, I would suggest the following, get
a new larger hd and install XP fresh, then install your old hd as a secondary
drive, and go thru it with a fine tooth comb to get your data and copy it to
the new install, I suggest a new larger hd so as not to do any more data
manipulation on the old drive as you stand a chance of corruption.

The next best suggestion is to reinstall your old applications in the new
larger hd and fresh windows install, since I have no idea of what
applications your using, I can't suggest anything more.

 

[TompangBuddy.Com]

Hello,

There is no easy and guaranteed way to transfer installed programs from one
operating system to another. Programs like Office and IE make many changes
when they install. It is better to reinstall them in your new installation.

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