A+: Upgrading to Windows XP from 2000

To start the Window XP upgrade process if you want to replace your old version of Windows, do the following:

    Step 1. Insert your Windows XP CD into the CD-ROM drive while your old version is running.

    Step 2. Unless you’ve disabled Autorun, the Windows XP splash screen is displayed. Choose Install Windows XP, Perform Additional Tasks, or Check System Compatibility.

    Step 3. If you haven’t used the Windows Upgrade Advisor on this system, click Check System Compatibility as discussed earlier in this chapter.

    Step 4. After completing the Upgrade Advisor check (if necessary), click Install Windows XP.

    Step 5. Select Upgrade (the default setting) to change your installed version of Windows to Windows XP, which enables you to use your existing software and settings without reinstallation.

    During the upgrade process, you can convert the file system to NTFS. Do this to save space on your hard disk (NTFS is more efficient than FAT32) and if you want features such as encryption, file/folder compression, and better security. As an alternative to converting the file system during installation, use the command-line convert.exe program to perform this task after you verify that the Windows XP upgrade works properly.

    Step 6. Read the license agreement, click I Accept, and click Next to continue.

    Step 7. Enter the product key from the back of the CD package and click Next to continue.

    Step 8. The installation process begins; a display on the left side gives an estimate of how long the process will take until completion. The computer restarts several times during the process.

    Step 9. At the end of the process, the Welcome to Microsoft Windows dialog box is displayed. You can use it to activate your copy of Windows and set up users.

    Step 10. After you complete the steps listed in the Welcome dialog box, the Windows XP desktop is displayed.