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Before installing an operating system, choose an installation method and backup data. Verify that existing software and hardware will work after installation. Practical tips include allowing enough time and having another device available for troubleshooting. Some systems can be run without a complete installation.
There are several key points to make for a smooth operating system installation. These include choosing an installation method and then scheduling the necessary backups. A second step is to verify that your existing software and hardware will work after installation. There are also some practical measures to consider.
Depending on your system, there are two main types of operating system installation. One is an “in-place upgrade,” which is typically available when you move from one version of an operating system to a later version, but stick with the same edition. For example, Windows Vista Home Premium to Windows 7 Home Premium would allow an in-place upgrade, but Windows Vista Ultimate to Windows 7 Home Premium would not. If an in-place upgrade is not available, a clean install is required. This effectively involves wiping the hard drive and starting from scratch.
The method a user uses to install the operating system determines the backup method required. A clean install means that you have to fully back up any data you want to use on the new operating system so that you can restore it later. This includes both computer settings and any files such as documents or media files. This can be done via recordable media such as DVDs, although an external hard drive is more practical with larger file collections. An in-place upgrade doesn’t require a full backup, but it’s still worth backing up your most important files in case something goes wrong.
Before installing a new operating system, it’s worth verifying that all software and hardware will work correctly on the new system. In some cases, the operating system manufacturer may provide an online tool that will scan the system for compliance. In other cases, the system owner may need to check with the manufacturers of each software application or hardware device. Most hardware devices will work on a newer system, but you may need an updated driver, which is the little piece of software that coordinates it with your operating system. If the previous software doesn’t work on the new system, the owner can look for a replacement or, with some systems, use a special mode that simulates the previous operating system.
There are some practical tips that make installing the operating system easier. First, you should allow plenty of time to deal with any snags, so it’s best not to start late at night or just before a scheduled appointment. It is also very useful to have another Internet-enabled device, such as a laptop or smartphone, available to be able to check online for solutions if there is a problem.
With some operating systems, especially those based on Linux, it is possible to use the system without a complete installation. In some cases, this is done by running the system from a USB memory stick or CD or DVD. In other cases, this is done by installing it alongside an existing system on the computer and then selecting the one the owner wants to use each time he restarts the computer. Typically, a system installed on the hard drive will be more stable than one running from a memory stick or removable disk.
