- Note: Before installing Windows XP, you should disable your virus protection (antivirus) software, and you might want to run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool to test your computer's random access memory (RAM). To use the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool, follow the instructions on the Windows Memory Diagnostic. Be sure to enable your virus protection software after installing Windows XP.
When you upgrade to Windows XP, you install Windows to the same folder where your current version of Windows is located, updating the earlier version. Here's how:
- Start your computer. Also, make sure you have your product key handy.
- Insert the Windows XP CD into your computer's CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive.
- On the menu that appears, click Install Windows XP.
- On the Welcome to Windows Setup page, click Upgrade (recommended) (if it is not already selected), and then click Next. (You should click Next on each screen from here on.)
- On the License Agreement page, read the agreement, and follow the instructions to accept or reject the agreement.
- On the Your Product Key page, type the 25-character product key in the appropriate boxes.
- On the Get Updated Setup Files page, select the option that you want. Hint: It's a really good idea to select Yes and get the updated files, but you can only do this if you're able to connect to the Internet.
- Note: Some of the problems addressed in the troubleshooting section of this document are prevented by getting the updated Setup files.
- During this phase of Setup, the computer will restart several times, and you'll see screens telling you about new features in Windows XP. This part of Setup takes a while. It's a good time to go have a cup of coffee or take a break.
- Finally, the computer restarts one last time and Windows XP starts.
Do not forget to enable your virus protection software after Setup is finished.
