How does a new operating system take care of unique computer drivers?

Question

Since every computer manufacture puts unique features into a computer how does the installation of a new operating system, such as Vista, keep any programs unique to the computer? Does installation of a new system actually delete everything and then install from the CD or does it save and restore modules required by the computer hardware? Is there some sort of standard? I have a Toshiba laptop. Are there program modules written by Toshiba on the computer that must stay?

An example. Toshiba has its own power module that replaces the XP power module.

Since most people are dummies they have no idea that a computer may or may not require manufacture modules. What happens when they go to Costco and buy the operating system and just follow the instructions? Will their computer fail? How do you get the required modules if the computer does not work? This is why I hate to upgrade. Is it better to just wait and buy a new computer?

Answer 1

I would make sure you have back-ups of all your programs before installing Vista. You may run into problems with the older programs running on Vista as they may not fit the format (I think Vista is geared for 64bit rather than 32 like Windows).
If you just install Vista you may delete anything you want to keep so make back-ups and don't be suprised if some older programs will have to be replaced with new ones.

Have a great day!!!

P.S. You're such a young kitty to be asking questions like this- you must be really intelligent! lol

Answer 2

If you get Windows from Microsoft and there are unique features in your system you will have to go to the manufacturer's website to re-install. The other option is to get a version of windows from that manufacturer that has the drivers built in.

When you go to Vista from XP someday, the best approach is to back up your data and do a fresh install. Microsoft upgrades rarely work the way you expect them to.