Re: 98 Upgrade

Tech-Archive recommends: Repair Windows Errors & Optimize Windows Performance

Ironnthunder wrote:

Ok, I'm currently running a Tyan based 933 P3 with 98 SE. I know this
is a glimpse into the stone age but bear with me. I'm thinking of
upgrading to XP Home and I'm wondering about application
compatability. I've read some of the info here and it seems that the
app compatability wizard might help resolve potential issues. I mean,
what's the point of upgrading if nothings going to run.


By all means run the wizard, but be aware that *most* Windows 98-era
programs run fine on Windows XP. What you are most likely to have issues
with are utility programs.

Two other points:

1. Be sure you have enough RAM. XP needs significantly more than 98. How
much RAM you need depends on what apps you run, but almost nobody will be
satisfied with less than 256MB. Some people (but not all) will find
significant performance gains by going as high as 512MB, and even higher if
you do graphics or video editing.

2. Be aware that some people will try to convince you that a clean
installation instead of an upgrade is much better. My advice is exactly the
opposite. Unlike with previous versions of Windows, an upgrade to XP
replaces almost everything, and usually works very well.

My recommendation is to at least try the upgrade, since it's much easier
than a clean installation. You can always change your mind and reinstall
cleanly if problems develop.

However, don't assume that doing an upgrade relieves you of the need to
backup your data, etc. before beginning. Before starting to upgrade, it's
always prudent to recognize that things like a sudden power loss can occur
in the middle of it and cause the loss of everything. For that reason you
should make sure you have backups and anything else you need to reinstall if
the worst happens.

--
Ken Blake - Microsoft MVP Windows: Shell/User
Please reply to the newsgroup




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