Chapter 13: Installing a Windows Desktop Operating System

Overview

The Installing a Windows Desktop Operating System objective domain focuses on the installation and upgrading of the Microsoft Windows XP operating system. The exam covers three installation types: attended installation, unattended installation, and a Windows operating system upgrade.

As a desktop support technician (DST), you must understand how to install Microsoft Windows XP using the best method for your organization or the method the user requests. You should be comfortable installing the operating system when a user is available to answer setup configuration questions, such as Time Zone and Computer Name. Conversely, by using the unattended installation features available, you should be able to install the operating system when no one is available to answer the setup questions. Lastly, in many situations you will need to upgrade older Microsoft operating system versions to Windows XP Professional. You must be able to troubleshoot those installations that fail by evaluating the boot sequence and reviewing log files.

The Windows XP operating system is a robust and powerful operating system that contains many features. The first step in working with any operating system is being skillful in installing and configuring the system. Troubleshooting an operating system is a lot easier if you are aware of how to install all components.