Some older machines may be more suited to run XP than Windows 7.
Windows 7 is a more advanced and stable operating system than the older Windows XP, and in most cases, it is the more suitable choice of operating system for a PC. This is because it is possible to run Windows XP from within Windows 7 as a guest operating system, using virtual PC software. This can help to run software and hardware not compatible with Windows 7. However, some older computers may not be powerful enough to run Windows 7, and in these cases Windows XP may be better.
Instructions
1. Back up all data that you want to keep. This includes documents, photos, music, movies, and so on. The installation process will completely wipe the hard drive and data will be lost, so ensure you are thorough in this process. The data should be kept on an external place, such as DVDs or an external hard drive.
2. Check that drivers are available on Windows XP for all the hardware components on your machine. If your machine has some newer components, the drivers may not come with Windows XP as standard -- in these cases, visit the manufacturer's websites and download the drivers before you continue this process.
3. Restart the computer with the Windows XP CD inserted in the CD or DVD drive. Upon restarting, the Windows XP installation process should begin automatically. If it does not, you must enter your computers BIOS menu when restarting (look for a message stating something like "Press Del to Enter Setup"), and change the boot order of your devices so that the CD drive is given priority over the hard drive.
4. Follow the instructions that appear when the CD boots up. You will need your product activation key in order to complete the installation, and you will also need to read and accept Microsoft's terms and conditions. When you are asked what type of installation you want, select "Typical," which will install the most commonly used and needed components of Windows XP. The rest of the steps are self-explanatory.
5. Wait for the installation to complete. On older machines, this may take up to an hour. Once completed, you will be asked to restart your computer, after which Windows XP will boot up, and you will be given a welcome message and the chance to take a tour of XP's main features.
Tags: hard drive, operating system, installation process, older machines, these cases, this process
