Should I install Windows XP on an Old Laptop?

[Guest]

I am running Win 98 SE. The point is - I don't want to. I have problems
running newer programs (browser, av, firewall, etc), and there is no security
to speak of.

According to everyone here, XP will run too slowly, which I sort-of
expected, but I wanted the opinions of others.

According to responses in other groups, 2000 Pro will run smoothly with a
memory upgrade. Its cheap, and will last me a couple of more years. That's
good enough for me.

 

[Shenan Stanley]

On my desktop computer, I do print publications, video editing, and
Web design. I needed a system that was powerful, thus the hefty
price tag. When I bought my desktop, it would have been over $1000
for a laptop with all of my necessary hardware. So, I stuck with
the desktop.

I don't plan on doing all of this graphic design work on the road.
I just need something for communication purposes - email, Web, wp.
I understand that upgrading the laptop is a temp. solution, but its
all I can afford. I have found compatible RAM for it that will cost
me around $25, and, as long as I can check my email with relatively
no hassle, I will be happy. I have one powerful computer, I don't
need another.

I understand the point you are making, If the price for a laptop
that meets the needs that my desktop fulfills was cheaper, I would
have bought one. But, with more RAM & W2K, this laptop should
suffice for 2+ years, and by then, I should have enough money to
purchase a new high-end laptop.

I completely agree with your point, but as a student, I can't
afford it.

That's cool - and understandable. ;-)
Good luck!

 

[Uncle Grumpy]

With all fancy features in XP turned off, would it run OK with 320MB and my
processor, or would I be better off sticking with 2000 Pro?

If all of your drivers are XP-compatible, I'm sure you'll be happy.

I ran XP on a 600mhz machine with only 256mb of RAM for five years and
only upgraded what I had out of boredom.

 

[Daave]

I am running Win 98 SE.

I meant why not just stay with 98 SE?

The point is - I don't want to. I have
problems running newer programs (browser, av, firewall, etc), and
there is no security to speak of.

If you configure your system properly, there's plenty of security. For
guidance, you may want to check out microsoft.
public.win98.gen_discussion. IE6 can be safe, contrary to public
opinion. There are also many alternatives such as K-meleon. AVG runs
just fine on 98SE. And there's nothing wrong with running earlier
versions of Zone Alarm or Outpost as your firewall.

According to everyone here, XP will run too slowly, which I sort-of
expected, but I wanted the opinions of others.

According to responses in other groups, 2000 Pro will run smoothly
with a memory upgrade. Its cheap, and will last me a couple of more
years. That's good enough for me.

True, but 98SE should run even better. I don't have anything against
2000, per se; I just think an upgrade is unnecessary.

Anywho, you may want to make an image of your hard drive before
upgrading to 2000 "just in case." Good luck!