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Microsoft Windows: Converting a Vista Computer to XP
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Some operating systems aren't right for everyone. After the release of Vista, many Microsoft users found themselves longing for the halcyon days of XP when all of their software and peripheral hardware worked as expected. If one finds himself in this situation, the best course of action is to obtain a new copy of XP (or pull a dusty preexisting install disk out of storage) and reinstall the old operating system.
Before starting, an XP install disk must be obtained. If one is not available in the physical world, download XP from Tigerware and burn it to a disk:
1. Be sure to back up any necessary personal files.
2. Insert the Windows XP install disk.
3. Restart the computer.
4. The install disk will automatically run and launch the XP installation wizard, follow the steps provided by the wizard as though this were a normal install.
5. If the computer displays a warning that Windows already exists on this computer, continue the installation. The "new" XP system will replace the "old" Vista information.
6. Type in the XP product activation key when prompted to do so.
NOTE: If an attempted activation is met with an "already activated" dialog, opt instead to activate by phone.
It is important to keep in mind that the Microsoft corporation only supports the "downgrading" of Vista Business and Ultimate editions to XP Professional. This is not to say that it is impossible to replace any version of Vista with XP, but Microsoft won't help with the process.
If problems arise, it may be useful to format the drive before attempting to install XP. DBAN (Darik's Boot and Nuke) is a good program to use to accomplish this. DBAN can be obtained via TigerWare or the DBAN Web site.
Note: Formatting a drive will remove EVERYTHING from that drive. The user should ensure that every file that the user would like to keep is safely backed up prior to formatting.
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8/27/2009 3:33:34 PM
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