If you're upgrading from an earlier version of Windows, you should back up your current files. You can back up files to a disk, a tape drive, or another computer on your network. How you back up your files depends on your current operating system. If your computer is running Microsoft Windows 95 or Windows 98, you might need to install the Windows Backup program. If you're using Windows NT 4.0, Windows Backup is installed by default. You must have a tape drive installed to use the Backup tool in Windows NT.If your computer is currently running an unsupported operating system, you must install a new copy. The wizard installs Windows XP Professional in a new folder. After the installation is complete, you will have to reinstall applications and reset your preferences.If you want to modify the way the wizard installs Windows XP Professional, click Advanced Options, and then perform any of the following tasks: • Change the default location of the setup files. • Store system files in a folder other than the default folder (\Windows). • Copy the installation files from the CD to the hard disk. • Select the partition on which to install Windows XP Professional. Unless you're an advanced user, you should use the default settings.
After you start the Windows XP Professional Setup Wizard, one of the first decisions you have to make is whether to upgrade your current operating system or to perform an entirely new installation. During the setup process, you must choose between upgrading or installing a new copy of Windows (a "clean install"). During an upgrade, the Windows XP Setup Wizard replaces existing Windows files but preserves your existing settings and applications. Some applications might not be compatible with Windows XP Professional and therefore might not function properly after an upgrade. You can upgrade to Windows XP Professional from the following operating systems: • Windows 98 (all versions) • Windows Millennium Edition • Windows NT 4.0 Workstation (Service Pack 6 and later) • Windows 2000 Professional (including service packs) • Windows XP Home Edition
The Windows XP Professional Setup Wizard gathers information, including regional settings, names, and passwords. The wizard then copies the appropriate files to your hard disk, checks the hardware, and configures your installation. When the installation is complete, you're ready to log on to Windows XP Professional. Note that your computer restarts several times during the process. How you start the Windows XP Professional Setup Wizard depends on whether you're upgrading or installing a new copy of Windows. Determine your installation method, locate the appropriate section in this manual, and then follow the procedures for your Setup scenario. If You're Installing a New Copy (Clean Install) If your computer has a blank hard disk or your current operating system isn't supported, you need to start your computer by using the Windows XP Professional CD. Some newer CD-ROM drives can start the installation from the CD and automatically run the Windows XP Professional Setup Wizard.