Chapter 17. Operating System Upgrades

In this chapter

• Upgrading to Windows 98

• Upgrading to Windows 2000 Professional

• Upgrading to Windows XP Professional

No matter how much you like your operating system now, sooner or later you'll probably need to replace it. In this chapter, you'll learn how to upgrade older versions of Windows to Windows 98, Windows 2000 Professional, or Windows XP Professional. If you want to pass the A+ Certification operating systems exam, you need to understand the different parts of the upgrade process. Upgrading makes sense if you want to keep using existing software and settings, but prefer the advantages of a newer version of Windows.

If you prefer to keep your existing Windows 9x/Me or Windows 2000 installation around for awhile and still install Windows 2000 or Windows XP, check back in Chapter 16, "Operating System Installation," for information about dual booting (another important part of the A+ Certification operating systems exam). I cover how to dual boot Windows 98 and MS-DOS in this chapter.

The CD included with this book contains important Study Lab material for this chapter, as well as Chapters 2 “22 in this book. The Study Lab for each chapter contains terms to study, exercises, and practice tests ”all in printable PDF format (Adobe Acrobat Reader is included on the CD, too). These Study Lab materials will help you gear up for the A+ Exam. Also, the CD includes an industry-leading test engine from PrepLogic, which simulates the actual A+ test so that you can be sure that you're ready when test day arrives. Don't let the A+ test intimidate you. If you've read the chapters, worked through the Study Lab, and passed the practice tests from PrepLogic, you should be well prepared to ace the test!

Also, you'll notice that some words throughout each chapter are in bold format. These are study terms that are defined in the Study Lab. Be sure to consult the Study Lab when you are finished with this chapter to test what you've learned.