I would like to know if I can install windows xp pro oem over windows xp home and keep all my programs and files?

Thank You

Upgrade or freshly install? There's a difference!

I am running windows xp home now!and want to upgrade to windows xp pro oem!

I want to know if when I install windows xp pro oem will it write over the programs and files or will it just overwrite the OS?

If I have to do a clean install is there a way to transfer my programs and files?

Thank You

I am running windows xp home now!and want to upgrade to windows xp pro oem!

I want to know if when I install windows xp pro oem will it write over the programs and files  or will it just overwrite the OS?

If I have to do a clean install is there a way to transfer my programs and files?

Thank You

Yes there is:

start, programs, accesoires, system workset, wizard transfer files and settings

However, your programs will have to be reinstalled and their settings will probably get lost...

To re-import your settings: same as above but now choose 'This is the computer where I want to move my settings to'.

Hope my answer is usefull...

"Yes there is:

start, programs, accesoires, system workset, wizard transfer files and settings

However, your programs will have to be reinstalled and their settings will probably get lost...

To re-import your settings: same as above but now choose 'This is the computer where I want to move my settings to'.

Hope my answer is usefull... "

I dont understand?

I want to upgrade on the same computer!

If I install windows xp pro oem will it overwrite the progams or will it just overwrite the OS?

Would it be better if I use 2 hard drives?

Insall xp pro oem and then transfer the file and settings from the other drive?

Thank YOu

"Yes there is:

start, programs, accesoires, system workset, wizard transfer files and settings

However, your programs will have to be reinstalled and their settings will probably get lost...

To re-import your settings: same as above but now choose 'This is the computer where I want to move my settings to'.

Hope my answer is usefull... "

I dont understand?

I want to upgrade on the same computer!

If I install windows xp pro oem will it overwrite the progams or will it just overwrite the OS?

Would it be better if I use 2 hard drives?

Insall xp pro oem and then transfer the file and settings from the other drive?

Thank YOu

It SHOULD only overwrite the OS if you choose to upgrade, otherwise it will overwrite everything! Can someone confirm this for me?

You could try and use the OEM disk to run the 2nd Repair Option. Boot from the XP OEM disk. Skip the first repair option. Proceed with an "Install". You will then be prompted to install over you current install (wipes everything out) a different location or attempt to repair your current installtion (2nd Repair Option). 2nd repair option will then replace all XP system files but leave your registry alone as well as your files and settings.

After the reboot apply all service packs and hotfixes. Will it work? I don't know. Never tried this method over a lessor product. Done it many times to save installations from a complete wipe and install however.

If you upgrade your programs will remain as is.