Upgrade to XP from 98

[Row]

To upgrade a used laptop computer from Windows 98 to XP,
can I insert the XP cp and simply uprade the operating
sustem? Will I have to re-load application s/w such as
Microsoft Office?

 

[Jim Macklin]

It should update, but before you run the upgrade, browse the
CD for the compatibility test. It will check the system for
hardware and software issues.


--
The people think the Constitution protects their rights;
But government sees it as an obstacle to be overcome.


| To upgrade a used laptop computer from Windows 98 to XP,
| can I insert the XP cp and simply uprade the operating
| sustem? Will I have to re-load application s/w such as
| Microsoft Office?

 

[Carey Frisch [MVP]]

You need to purchase a "Retail Upgrade Version" of Windows XP
in order to "upgrade" over Windows 98. Do not purchase an "OEM
Version" since OEM versions cannot upgrade over an existing Windows
installation. You should not lose your files or programs if you upgrade
properly using the following procedure:

1. Purchase a conventional "Retail Upgrade Version" of Windows XP.
2. Uninstall your antivirus program.
3. Perform a backup of your important documents and files to a CD.
4. Disconnect all hardware peripheral devices, except the monitor, keyboard and mouse.
5. While running Windows 98, insert the Windows XP CD in the drive and select
the default "Upgrade" setup option. [Do not select "New Installation"]
6. Visit the Windows Update site to download all the critical updates.
7. Visit the support website of the manufacturer of the laptop and download any
Windows XP drivers required, such as video adapter, audio, etc.

Afterward, use ClearType to fine-tune your LCD screen:
http://www.microsoft.com/typography/cleartype/default.htm

(click on 'ClearType Tuner Updated')


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

Windows XP Upgrade Advisor
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;307726

Optional:

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

[Courtesy of Michael Stevens, MS-MVP]


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

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

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------


| To upgrade a used laptop computer from Windows 98 to XP,
| can I insert the XP cp and simply uprade the operating
| sustem? Will I have to re-load application s/w such as
| Microsoft Office?

 

[Alex Nichol]

To upgrade a used laptop computer from Windows 98 to XP,
can I insert the XP cp and simply uprade the operating
sustem? Will I have to re-load application s/w such as
Microsoft Office?

Provided your laptop has adequate hardware and not such heavily
proprietary hardware as to need a custom version of the system (eg
Compaq) you can just run the CD from the present system. First Read
Gary Woodruff's article on upgrading to XP at
http://www.aumha.org/win5/a/xpupgrad.htm