Installing XP Pro over OEM XP Home

by Alan Copeland Jun 1, 2005 12:35PM PDT

I just bought a new HP PC with their OEM XP Home. I would like to have XP Pro on this machine as it's been on my old Compaq for a couple of years with no glitches. What will happen if I install a full version XP Pro over the OEM? Will I lose files, programs, etc.? Thanks in advance.

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Upgrade Path

by Merl Priester Jun 1, 2005 2:58PM PDT

You need an upgrade version to upgrade without loss of programs.
If you but an OEM copy you can install without formatting but will need to load drivers and programs again.

An upgrade copy will run about 185.00 plus shipping on the Web. It will install over home without changing anything.

TIP: Be sure you are virus/spyware free before you start.

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Upgrade VS full version

by Alan Copeland Jun 1, 2005 11:14PM PDT

If I buy an upgrade version, it will ask for proof of an existing OS. Sicne mine is OEM, I didn't think it would qualify.

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Upgrade versions

by AussiePete Jun 2, 2005 12:10AM PDT

See this link to M$ - they make no mention or distinction between OEM versions
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/upgrading/default.mspx

But if I were you I would be ringing M$ up and asking them rather than taking advice from an unknown source!!!
Peter

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You may affect your warranty

by AussiePete Jun 1, 2005 3:16PM PDT

That aside - if the copy you have is a retail copy it should allow you to perform an upgrade - however, if I were you, I would backup the system onto CD's and do a clean install (using an image program of cause) - for many reason a clean install is much better than an upgrade - or perhaps, take your old hard disk and install it on your new machine and dual boot.
Peter

Installing XP Pro over OEM XP Home

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