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Currently I have ME, but I want to upgrade my PC to XP, because basically ME is ish. It's a free PC though, so hey.

Should I go to ebay and buy a copy?

...or should I download it from an FTP?

Also what are some things I will need to know, besides backing up my data?

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If the goal is to move off Windows Me, that was the right instinct — but two important context points for anyone reading this years later: Windows XP is no longer supported by Microsoft (extended support ended April 8, 2014), so running XP today exposes the machine to permanently unpatched vulnerabilities. If XP is required only for a specific legacy app or device, at minimum install the final XP service pack (SP3) and all applicable updates before you connect the machine to the Internet. (learn.microsoft.com)

Practical pre‑install checklist (beyond a file backup):

  • Export mail, address book and account settings (Outlook Express stores mail in .dbx files and Microsoft has step‑by‑step backup/restore guidance).
  • Save browser bookmarks, installers and all product keys; deauthorize licensed apps that require it. (support.microsoft.com)
  • Download vendor network and storage drivers onto removable media. If the PC uses SATA/AHCI or RAID, Windows XP setup may require a manufacturer driver supplied during text‑mode setup (the old “F6” method) or you’ll need to change the BIOS drive mode or slipstream drivers into the install media. Plan this before you begin. (intel.vn)

Licensing and edition notes: OEM/System‑Builder keys are generally tied to the original machine (non‑transferable); retail licenses are transferable. If you plan major hardware changes later, a retail license gives more flexibility. Also pick XP Home vs Pro based on features you need — Pro adds things like domain membership, file encryption (EFS), Remote Desktop host and other business features; Home is fine for a standalone consumer PC. (learn.microsoft.com)

After the install: apply SP3 and all patches, install the network driver next so you can update safely, then antimalware and a host firewall. Create a full disk image or recovery media immediately. ’s point about hardening before going online is sound — do the updates and basic hardening steps offline when possible. If the machine will stay on the network, answer ’s implied question: choose the Pro edition only if you need domain/enterprise features; otherwise Home will usually suffice.

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Member Avatar for TallCool1

Currently I have ME, but I want to upgrade my PC to XP, because basically ME is ish. It's a free PC though, so hey. Should I go to ebay and buy a copy... or should I download it from an FTP?

There are no "legal" downloads for XP, hence no FTP for you to get it from. eBay is ok -- you can get the OEM version of XP Pro for about $130.

I'm writing an article, called (it's not done yet) which will talk about securing XP before you get on-line to download the patches--here's a couple of tips to tide you over:

Do a "clean" install, not an upgrade. Especially with Me, there are likely to be conflicts between Me and XP.

I have seen machines hit by the Blaster worm and Messenger spam even before the patches were downloaded. Once you get XP installed, and before you get on the Internet, start by running Shoot the Messenger, DCOMbobulator, and UnPlug n' Pray from Gibson Research (about mid-page). You can download these to a floppy ahead of time. This will close the door on some of the vunerabilities used by malware

(PDF file, right-click to download) discusses the issues involved, but realize that much of what it does manually is done automatically by the above tools, hence the need for my article--to simplify matters and bring up other useful issues..

Member Avatar for Mega

Thanks. I ended up getting a legal copy of XP HE for $75 and installing that. It had a $25 instant rebate at Office Max.

I read up about XP Pro. I wasn't sure the $60 was enough of a difference in what I use it for.

Member Avatar for i686-linux

What do you use it for? Is your computer a part of a network, or is it a stand-alone machine?

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