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How to Install Windows XP (Page 1/7)


Posted: September 10, 2002
Written by: Dan "Tweak Monkey" Kennedy



How to Install Windows XP

Windows XP is arguably Microsoft’s best operating systems to date. It’s probably the most user-friendly, stable, complete and compatible OS to come from the company in one package. Along the same lines, it’s also really easy to install. So why are we writing an article on how to install Window XP? Well, there are a couple reasons…

First, we wrote this article because we know of a couple tricks to make your installation go more smoothly, and if you run into problems, we probably know the cause. We know of ways to make your PC faster, despite the fact it’ll be running the same OS as your neighbor or Counter-Strike rivals.

The most important reason for writing this article is that many people are afraid to install something as serious as an operating system – and for a good reason. If you have ever installed Windows 3.1, 95 or even 98 before, you know it can be a frustrating and tricky task. There are a couple steps you must follow that are too much for the average PC user (if you’ve even found Tweak3D, you are probably much more tech-savvy than that average PC user). A boot diskette is required, and it seems that at least 90% of the time it is corrupted. Some familiarity with DOS is necessary, and the wrong move can nuke your hard drive. If errors are encountered, no colorful and friendly menus are there to help you wade through the mess.

The days of risky business are over, though. Yes, installing a Microsoft OS is a very easy task, so long as you follow a couple steps that we’ve included in this guide to make your life easier. For best results, you’ll want to print this article and use it while you install Windows XP. This guide was written with Windows XP Professional in mind, but Windows XP Home will offer very similar options and this guide should offer ample support.

Preparing to Install XP

Before you go off and try to be a hero, be sure you have the necessary equipment to complete the installation. This means before you format a hard drive or even turn your PC on, locate the following:
  • Windows XP CD – Be sure it’s free of scratches and debris. If it’s scratched badly, it might only make it through half the installation, giving you a big dumb box of metal and a severe headache.



  • If you stare long enough, you might see a 3D image of a sailboat.

Next Page - More Preparing...

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