Switching from Windows 98 to Windows XP Pro (OEM version)

[Guest]

I have been given a computer running an OEM Windows XP which is better than
the current one I have with Windows 98.
I want to keep all my files that are on the Windows 98 hard drive and
upgrade to Windows XP. My question is, can I install my 98 hard drive onto
the computer given to me and then update to the XP version without doing
anything like a repair install? The XP is an OEM version but I am basically
reinstalling it on the same computer.

Thank you.

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

An OEM version of Windows XP cannot upgrade over
Windows 98. You'll need to purchase a "Retail Upgrade"
version of Windows XP if your wish to upgrade over Windows 98.
OEM versions must be installed on a reformatted drive.

Clean Install Windows XP
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html

What you need to do is to install your programs on the existing
Windows XP drive, then use the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.

Using the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard in Windows XP
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/setup/expert/crawford_november12.mspx

List of Programs Whose Settings Are Migrated When You Use
the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;[LN];304903

HOW TO: Set Up a Direct Cable Connection Between Two Computers in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;305621&Product=winxp

Cables That Are Compatible with Direct Cable Connection
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;310576&Product=winxp

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User
Microsoft Newsgroups

Be Smart! Protect Your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/protect/default.mspx

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:

| I have been given a computer running an OEM Windows XP which is better than
| the current one I have with Windows 98.
| I want to keep all my files that are on the Windows 98 hard drive and
| upgrade to Windows XP. My question is, can I install my 98 hard drive onto
| the computer given to me and then update to the XP version without doing
| anything like a repair install? The XP is an OEM version but I am basically
| reinstalling it on the same computer.
|
| Thank you.

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Bob;
Probably not.
OEM are not capable of anything but a Clean Installation.

Which hard drive is larger?

You could use F.A.S.T. to save your files and settings in Windows 98 and
transfer them to the Windows XP computer:
http://aumha.org/win5/a/fast.htm