To Benefit from Security Features of XP 1

[jerjim]

First of all, Hello to everyone who reads this:

I am a heavy internet user meaning I stay connected on the average 18 hours a day through a dial-up 56K line. My computer has Windows 2000 installed but then I just realized that Windows XP has better security features than W2K which is no longer being supported by Microsoft. So logically, I should upgrade to Windows XP. I have a Pentium-III 866Mhz cpu with 512MB of memory. My hardware should be sufficient to run XP.

I have not migrated to XP because I have heard that it has a lot of overhead and so it runs slower than W2K. (W2K is very, very stable.) Also XP does not support DOS-based programs. (Although I have yet to run a DOS based program on W2K.)

Therefore if only to gain the benefits of the security features of XP, I should upgrade to XP.

Is my reasoning correct? Are there other more compelling reasons for me to upgrade to XP?

Thanks in advance to all.

 

[DestinysDream]

Your logic is correct but your computer will drag because XP is very intense. I would look into getting a upgrade for my machine before moving up to XP. Only doing the minimum will get you no where.

List of minimum requirements in case you couldn't find them:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/home/evaluation/sysreqs.mspx

If anyone calls and says "I know a little something about computers" just tell them to reformat it.

 

[tk808]

As far as I know, jerjim's hardware is within XP requirements. In fact, having 512 MB of RAM is the recommended amount and his 866Mhz should be sufficient for non-intensive/graphical work.

As for security, you will sooner or later have to intall SP2 with all of its security "benefits" such as firewall and pop-up blocker, etc.

 

[DestinysDream]

Go ahead and upgrade to SP2 since the security is better. What do you do for 18 Hours on the internet?

If anyone calls and says "I know a little something about computers" just tell them to reformat it.

 

[linney]

XP can be setup to run in Classic View (and look just like your 2000 Desktop) and run very efficiently with all the extra colorful themes removed.

How Do I Make Windows XP Work More Like Windows Me or Windows 98? (or 2000)

http://www.andyrathbone.com/tips/xpclassic.html#top

It will be possible to transfer all your settings (and many files) even if you do a clean install of XP (recommended) rather than an upgrade.

306186 - HOW TO: Use the Files and Settings Transfer Wizard By Using the Windows XP CD-ROM

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;306186

293118 - HOW TO: Use Files and Settings Transfer Wizard in Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;293118&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH#2

Most DOS software will run on XP.

Troubleshooting MS-DOS-based programs in Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314106?FR=1

XP is the most stable Microsoft Operating System.


A general checklist is included in this article.

HOW TO: Prepare to Upgrade Windows 98 or Windows Millennium Edition to Windows XP(Q316639)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q316/6/39.asp

See if you can borrow a friend's XP CD and run the Upgrade Advisor program from the CD to check your machine for any problems.

Description of the Windows XP Upgrade Advisor

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;307726&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

 

[jerjim]

Dear tk808, DestinysDream and most especially linney:

Thanks for all your advice. Very, very helpful. Didn't realize all this was possible. More power to tek-tips!!!
I will immediately upgrade to Windows XP.

JerJim