Windows xp OEM, Upgrade or Retail?

[tk1780]

Want to upgrade from 98FE to XP but are a bit confused on which on to get. I do not want to reformat the hard drive if possible so I do not lose all of my programs, etc.

I assume that if i get Upgrade, it will do that and not lose my other software.

I have a couple other computers that I also want to upgrade. If I get upgrade, can I buy an OEM license and use Upgrade again or do I need an OEM disc instead of an Upgrade disk?

Also, Is there any benefit to Retail, like can you upgrade instead of only a clean install.

Finally, w/OEM can you upgrade or is it just a clean install?

Thank you

[osprey4]

You cannot upgrade over your existing OS with an OEM disc. In addition, some OEM discs may not work with all computers. Read the fine print. I've heard of people buying Dell OEM XP discs who've found they do not work with their machine.

Most people here will recommend you perform a clean install, even for the upgrade. If you are determined to upgrade over your existing OS, make a full backup before going forward.

[lohearn]

OEM software will only work with OEM license, OEM license will not work with retail or upgrade software. I upgraded my curent PC to XP Pro using an OEM disk and license.

First and foremost: backup your current configuration. I borrowed a USB hard drive from a friend and backed up my entire hard drive using a disk-copy program.

The OEM software will not merely "upgrade" your win98 system, it will overwrite the entire 98 installation. Iused the files and settings wizard on the xp pro cd to transfer all my files and settings to the USB hard drive first.

I then shutdown and booted into the xp prp setup. Setup installed XP pro onto my system, wiping out all my win 98 settings. The files and settings wizard brought most of my settings back, had to tweak in a few things and reinstall a few programs.

I went with the OEM software personally because I build my own systems for friends and family. I only build about 5 systems per year, but using the OEM saves me some money.

The thing is you get no MS support with the oem softare so for many people the full retail or upgrade is a much better solution.