Moving from XP Home to Pro (x32 or x64), what are best options?

[Arlichte]

Hey guys.

I was wondering what the best way to move from XP home to Pro. Will I need to format my drive in order to do so? Or do I just pop the CD in and it will install over home?

I've never done this before, so any advice would be helpful.

Thanks a plenty,
-Andrew

 

[Catweazle]

If you are upgrading from XP Home 32-bit to XP Pro 32-bit, and you are absolutely 100% certain that your existing Windows installation is in excellent shape, completely free of viruses and other malware or issues of any kind which might impact on its stability, then go right ahead and do an Upgrade install!

IN ALL OTHER CIRCUMSTANCES it is better to backup, wipe, and install clean and fresh. Matter of fact, if you plan to move to 64-bit Windows it is essential to do so, because a 32-bit installation cannot be 'upgraded'.