OT: Windows XP question

[Jon]

I currently have windows 98 se. If I upgrade to windows xp, must I reinstall everything currently on my computer? Thanks.

[Craptacular]

Depends on how you install it. If you just upgrade over the old OS, I think most of your old programs should work without a reinstall. However, you are generally MUCH better off doing a clean install of XP (or any OS) ... format your HD (or use a second HD), and install XP like you were starting from scratch.

[hukarez]

I currently have windows 98 se. If I upgrade to windows xp, must I reinstall everything currently on my computer? Thanks.I would believe that to be the safest bet...

If I'm not mistaken, you'll have to still format your primary partition regardless? It's been awhile since I last did an XP install.

[druez]

Windows XP will install under a fat32 or NTFS file partition. Upgrades from 98 to XP if you don't do a clean install don't go well at all. you will have to reinstall most of your programs. Things like virus protection, office, most games etc. Backup what you have to a 2nd disk or partition then boot off your XP CD. Choose the option to install a fresh copy of XP, it might ask you to hit esc. Choose your main parition then hit the L key to delete it. This will wipe it all out.

Then format your drive in NTFS "don't do a quick format do a full" and the install is pretty straight forward from there. If you have any questions just let me know.

[Tasan]

No, you wouldn't need to reformat, XP will run on fat32. You should though, because like Crapy said, you'll be much happier with the install starting fresh.

[Gallifrey]

In most cases like this I will install a second HD and install XP fresh formatting the HD for NTFS.

I slave out the other drive and copy the files over.

Your Office files will open in XP Office fine.

I have installed XP over the top of other OS's before, and have not had any problems. But fresh is always better for the best performance in the future.

[MizzouRah]

XP will run a system scan and give you a report on what will and what might/might not work once upgraded.

I've had 0 issues with upgrading from se, but agree that a fresh install is always the best way.


Todd