Versions of XP 1

[FWPIII]

We recently purchased an academic version of Win XP Pro, the upgrade version. When I started to read through the doc that came with it, it stated that you could do an upgrade to XP from the current OS (Win ME) preserving your current settings, etc. Or you could choose to do a clean install overwriting everything. If this is the case what is the purpose of the upgrade version or how does it really differ from the 'complete' version?
Thanks

 

[wolluf]

Its cheaper! (so you either need an existing qualifying windows installation or install CD to be able to use it). The clean installation will be the same as one produced by full version.

 

[smah]

There is very little real difference - MS is just being nice to loyal windows users by offering an 'Upgrade' version at reduced pricing. Wether you clean install or not, the upgrade version will require you to prove that you have/had a previous 'qualifying' version. If you do a clean insallation, at some point you will need to put in your qualifying cd. FWIW, a clean installation will cause a lot less hassle in the long run. You may also want to read faq779-4004

 

[FWPIII]

Thanks to both of you, I think I'll look to do a clean install of XP eliminating possible problems after the fact.

 

[Rolvag]

Definitly do a clean install. Especially from ME MHO