Need to upgrade from Win ME to XP...

[melarky]

My brother-in-law has a computer that is still running Windows ME (it's a nice fast computer, but for some reason, he's always had Windows ME on it, but it's more than capable to run XP).

He's ready to upgrade, and I'm trying to help him find a good deal on an upgrade disk, but it still seems like it's extremely expensive to upgrade to XP (especially considering that Vista is out now).

Does anyone know where to get a good deal on a WinXP upgrade?  Doesn't matter whether it's home or pro, but he does want to upgrade rather than fresh install (he doesn't want to round up all the programs again and just hoping to be able to upgrade to XP from ME, not even sure if that is wise or possible).

Just thought I would ask this board as I've gotten some great advice in the past when it comes to computer stuff, this board has such a great combination of people that seem to know alot about everything

[torez]

Fresh install all the way.  It will get rid of all the old junk and will be faster.  It will use less space on disk as well.

First of all, how big/old it the hard drive?  I would recommend new drive, as they are now faster/quieter.  Second, use NTFS file system (format) before installing XP (ME uses FAT32).  If you want legal copy of XP try looking on ebay for XP OEM.  It's cheaper than the retail copy.  If you want to go less legal way, try newsgroups or torrents, even eDonkey.

[paigeoliver]

Also, ask around to various people you know. With a new windows version out someone you know has probably upgraded and might totally be willing just to give you their old copy.

I'd actually suggest an upgrade to Windows 2000 instead, since most computers that would have shipped with ME on them are probably going to be a dog with XP.

[USSEnterprise]

Is Windows 2k still supported?

[pointdablame]

do NOT upgrade from ME to XP... it'll be an even bigger dog than ME itself.

If your friend isn't willing to reinstall his programs, then tell him to stick with ME (which is a horrible, horrible idea).  If the system really can handle XP like you say it can, do a fresh install.  Anything else is stupid.

[melarky]

Yeah, the system is more than capable.  His dad gave him the system, and he threw ME on it because he didn't have any other operating system licenses at the time (that is why he put ME on it, not because of system specs).

I told him that he should plan on a fresh install, so he's going to start preparing for that.  Thanks for the advice everyone.