Upgrade from XP home to pro

[Brian]

Can you upgrade from a full install of
XP home to a full install of XP pro without
losing data/settings etc...I would like to
load XP Pro over my XP Home without having
to format the drives and start from scratch.
Can you do this? Is it worth it? Thanks for
your time.

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

1. Purchase the conventional "retail upgrade version" of XP Pro.
2. Uninstall any third-party antivirus or firewall programs.
3. Disconnect all peripheral hardware devices, but not the monitor, keyboard or mouse.
4. While at your XP Home desktop screen, insert the XP Pro CD in the CD drive.
5. Select the default "Upgrade" option....do not select "New Installation".
6. Defrag your drive after upgrading.
7. Reinstall your antivirus program & turn-on the firewall.
8. Visit the Windows Update website and download the necessary updates.

Windows XP Comparison Guide
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/howtobuy/choosing2.asp

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

Be Smart! Protect your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/security/protect/

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| Can you upgrade from a full install of
| XP home to a full install of XP pro without
| losing data/settings etc...I would like to
| load XP Pro over my XP Home without having
| to format the drives and start from scratch.
| Can you do this? Is it worth it? Thanks for
| your time.

 

[Len Segal]

Carey answered the question of "how".

You ask "Is it worth it?"

ONLY YOU can answer that question. WinXP Home and Pro are essentially the
same program. The exceptions have to do with networking and security
settings, with more ability to change settings and operate in a Domain (used
in enterprises, not usually used in home networks).

Is this worth $100 more to you? Do you need it?