Installing windows XP on existing harddrive?

I have an old computer we have been using, that has windows 98 on it, with quite a few farm files. I just purchased a new Windows XP Pro software to do a complete install. How do I do this without damaging or losing my farm files on the currant harddrive? I was thinking I may have to back everything up to cds, reformat the harddrive then run the windows XP disc, is that the process, or can it be done without backing up all the files?
thanks,
coadman

 

If you purchased a retail non-OEM Full or Upgrade copy of XP, it will install without requiring a format. Your data files will be intact.

 

Basically agree with Bill Castner but sometimes things will go wrong. IF the data files are non replaceable BACKUP the data. One of course one should always backup important information , the hdd can go bad at any time. It is when will hdd become a door stop not if.

 

read the windows readme on 'clean install' section. i'd STRONGLY suggest that u do NOT update the 98 install.

basically u have it right. backup u'r data and do a clean install. u'll regret it if u don't.

 

I makes no difference whether you are going to upgrade or not
Keep those iimportant data file backed up And I find a CD to be a good place.

I believe that is a matter of opinion and/or choice and sure is a 100% 2sided story.

We really have nothing to lose by installing one OS over the other because all inportant data should be backed up. And on a partition or HD other than C: ( My son did not listen )

Yes, putting one OS over the other does raise different opinions. But this machine that I am using to write this note originally started out with A copy of Win95 HD in another machine. Then to 98. then to 98SE and Now XP Pro.

I believe that one of the main items to be concerned with is to make sure that all programs that may be loading at startup are shut down.

Personal Opinion from the Getting Bored
BillyBob