Older operating system?

Question

Ok I'm on an older operating system and was wondering if it is wise for me to update it or just go ahead and in stall a newer operating system. Running Windows 2000 Pro version. Was wanting to update it to Windows Xp Home edition SP2. Right now I'm using an older computer but it runs great. I'm going to give you some info on what I'm using so you can tell me what is better choice to go with. I have been told not to update if the following reasons it is faster to use 2000 bc it is used for server type computers and office type is it better to stay with it or go ahead and up date to new one. What is better choice.

System Model 6288BVU
System Type X86-Based PC
Processor x86 Family 6 model 6 stepping 5 GenuineIntel ~528MHZ
BIOS Version IBM BIOS VER NXKT33.0

I only have as 10gig hard drive will it make a diff if I decide to go ahead and use Xp instead of the one I got now.

UseFull info so far thks someone is going to get 10 points soon

Answer 1

I support about 1,400 computers that are a mix of 2000 and XP. For the specs you listed, XP will run BETTER then Windows 2000. It is faster and uses less memory overhead. Plus it is easier to configure and to find drivers for.

Because Win 2000 is intended for office use with servers, etc., it has lot more security built into it. That shows the system and uses more overhead. It also restricts the hardware you can add to the computer. It has to meet a higher security standard to be used in an office environment, and most companies do want to spend the money to write secure drivers since Windows 2000 is no longer being made or sold by Microsoft (and will not be supported in another year or 2).

But it also cost about $100 to convert. Whether you will get enough benefit to be worth the change is another issue. If the Win 2000 is working fine for you, you may just want to stay with it. There is no major advantage to changing. However, if you are having problems, the PC is running slow, etc., then make the switch.

Answer 2

Well, you didn't mention why you thought you needed to upgrade.
One major disadvantage of upgrading, is that XP takes more resources. You didn't mention how much memory you had. Memory will make all windoz products work better. Not to mention you only have a 528 MHz machine. I still have a windows 3.1 system on a 386 machine. If all you need is typing... that it still works. I would just not use that to attach to the network. Just typing and printing.

IMHO, I would stay where your at unless some critical application required XP.

Also, if you upgrade it is always better to wipe the operating system and start with a fresh install. NEVER do an upgrade. It leaves way to much stuff behind.

I always recommend that folks build a relationship with a local PC Dealer. Don't go to a low end clone store. But a decent brand, like IBM or HP. A lot of people like Dell, and they are getting better, but I still don't like them. We had several hinges break and it was hundreds of dollars just for new hinges on several laptops that broke within weeks of each other. Ugh...

I've used IBM's Thinkpads for years without much problem. In fact last week I spilled a bottle of water in the keyboard, not once, but twice in about 10 seconds... I tipped it sideways and just dumped out the water, wipped off the keys and kept working. Quality, support, and parts years from now are more important to me than saving $100 - $200 on the front end.

If the dealer doesn't carry quality machines, then go find one that does and that will help you with things like upgrades and hw debug in the future.

Pay them to upgrade if you must.. but if you can, stay where you are. Also make sure you always get the latest fixes, updates applied. I haven't had to look for w2k systems for a while and soon they might quit producing fixes. That would be a good reason to upgrade your system.

One last comment, don't go to VISTA yet, as not all programs are compatible with it... and it will cause you a lot of grief.

Good luck.