Recently I bought a laptop that has Windows 98. I want to change to Windows XP (I bought a CD). Is it possible that if I installed Windows XP that the laptop will not recognize other devices such as the 56KB modem, CD drives, USB ports, etc.? If so, how can I install the software for these devices drives if I do not have the discs for them?
If you hadn’t already bought the Windows XP disc, I’d probably recommend that you hold off and upgrade to Windows 7 - that is the newest Microsoft operating system. In any case, you will probably be happy with Windows XP, and it isn’t difficult to upgrade your laptop.
You will need the XP CD and the product key. There are two basic methods to install the operating system - an upgrade or a clean install. For both methods, make sure that all of your important data is backed up on an external medium. The upgrade should leave your data in place, but you can never be too careful.
Upgrade to Windows XP
Before you upgrade, try to update your BIOS settings from the computer manufacturer. Otherwise, your upgrade could be compromised.
Start the computer with the Windows XP CD in the drive. Your computer should detect the CD. Choose Install Windows and the Wizard should start up to guide you through the process. You will need to select the installation type - choose upgrade then click Next. You should then see the prompts that will guide you through the rest of the upgrade.
If your computer does not detect the CD drive, go to Start and then Run. At the prompt, type in: CD drive (insert the letter of the drive here)\setup.exe and then click OK.
Clean Installation
This method repartitions and reformats your hard disk and installs the operating system to a clean hard disk. In doing so, you will wipe out all of the data on your computer, so be extra sure that you have a reliable backup for all of your information.
Put the CD in the drive and start the computer. If you see the message “Press any key to boot from CD,” press any key. You should see the Welcome to Setup screen - press Enter. Press F8 to accept the license terms. You will then follow the instructions to choose and format a partition where you want XP to install the operating system.
You shouldn’t have any problem with your device drivers, but if you do, you can go to the device manufacturer’s website and download the newest driver from there. Most manufacturers’ websites have the driver download buttons in an easy to find location.
