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Check list before upgrading operating system

An Operating System is an essential component of a computer. The Operating system (for example Windows) gets updated very often and new versions are launched at specified intervals. Windows has many versions like Windows 95, 98, ME, NT, 2000 and XP. An upgraded version of an operating system enables you to use many latest applications. A computer works more efficiently after up gradations. But, you need to take care of certain points before upgrading your operating system so as to make your computer work well.

Sufficient hardware: The general specification says that the new operating system may require heftier hardware than their predecessors. So, it is very vital to be sure about the hardware requirements (like memory) before you do the upgrade. For example, Windows Vista requires the proper video card to support the Aero interface. In general it is easy to upgrade a desktop as compare to a laptop to some level.

Driver problems: A device driver or software driver is a computer program allowing higher level computer programs to interact with a hardware device. Driver problems are one of the most common causes of all sorts of trouble connected with an OS upgrade. Sometimes the vendors don't update their drivers to work with the new operating system and this may result to technical issue like non functioning of sound card or printer.

Application incompatibilities: Another common thing that may go wrong when upgrading an OS is that you are not able to run some applications and this may result to improper functionality. The solution for the problem is that run the older OS on a virtual machine using VM software, such as Virtual PC or VMWare and then installs your incompatible applications on the virtual machine and you can use them in a window on your desktop. One thing that should be taken care is that you need to have a license for the older OS to run it in a VM.

Errors and freezes : Sometimes you may face a problem when Setup process fails in the middle of an upgrade and as a result you are not able to use either new or old operating system. In some cases, the problem may lie with the hard drive or with the optical drive running the installation media. This can also be caused by a hardware issue. To avoid this problem, you need to install the novel operating system on the free space available, if it is possible or you can save a copy of the older operating system in dump.

Data loss: Data is the most precious thing on your computer. It is a wise decision to store user data on a different partition from the one on which the operating system is installed because the operating system and applications can be reinstalled, but data is often unique and you might not ever be able to re-create it.

Wrong OS edition : You must use a proper edition of operating system with your processor. Choice of edition depends upon the usage as it different for a home PC or for an office PC. Operating system windows Vista comes in following editions:

· Ultimate

· Home Premium

· Home basic

· Business

· Enterprise

At the end, we can sum up with the idea that your computer must be upgrade with time to compete with the latest technology. But it should be kept in mind that up gradation should be done in such a manner that the user should be comfortable using it and the processor.

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