This is one of the easiest of all Windows upgrades. I have done it many
times. Here is what I have learned.
Make sure you have a backup, or even better multiple backups.
Make sure you have enough free space on your hard drive. I recommend at
least 4 GB free.
Make sure the upgrade media has the same service pack level or higher than
the Windows to be upgraded. You can't upgrade XP Home SP2 with XP Pro SP1.
Run Disk Cleanup while logged on as each user.
Run a virus and a spyware scan.
Physically disconnect the computer from the Internet. Unplug it from the
network.
Physically disconnect any external USB devices. This includes printers,
flash drives, cameras, etc.. I can't say this loud enough. Unplug all USB
devices.
If you have any card readers in the computer make sure there are no memory
cards in them.
Uninstall any antivirus, antispyware, and 3rd party firewalls before the
upgrade. Don't just disable then. Uninstall them. They can be reinstalled
after the upgrade.
From within Windows insert the upgrade CD and follow the on screen
instructions.
