Clean Install of Windows Vista

This option installs Windows Vista™ and replaces the existing Windows XP, all of your files, settings, and programs. However, use a clean installation if you want to delete Windows XP and replace it with Windows Vista; or if you want to partition your hard disk, and install Windows Vista on a specific partition. In these two cases, all of your personal data files and applications will be lost. Be sure that you have your data files backed up before performing this option.

Note: Prior to upgrading the operating system to Windows Vista, run Upgrade Advisor to see if there are any compatibility issues that need to be addressed prior to the upgrade. It is recommended to resolve any compatibility issues prior to upgrading.

Note: Due to the large number of virus and Spyware threats on the Internet, it is recommended that you disconnect all Internet connections before reinstalling Windows. After the Windows installation, antivirus and firewall software can be installed, and then the Internet connection can be re-enabled to update the antivirus definitions and perform Microsoft Windows Updates.

  1. Place the Windows Vista Upgrade disc in the optical drive. Close any dialog boxes that open.

  2. Turn off the computer, using the normal Windows shut down process.

  3. After the computer is turned off, disconnect all USB devices except the keyboard and mouse. This includes USB devices such as a printer, scanner, removable storage, or camera.

    Note: The computer must be configured to boot to the CD/DVD drive.

  4. Turn on the computer. When prompted, press any key to boot from CD or DVD.
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  5. Windows loads files.
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  6. In the Install Windows dialog box, select the appropriate information, and then click Next.
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  7. In the Install Windows dialog box, click Install now.
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  8. In the Type your product key for activation screen, enter the product key, and then click Next.
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  9. In the Please read the license terms screen, check I accept the license terms, and then click Next.
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  10. In the Which type of installation do you want screen, click Custom (advanced).
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  11. In the Where do you want to install Windows screen, you can create new partitions, delete partitions, format partitions, and extend partitions. Make appropriate changes, and then click Next.

  12. Windows installs.
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  13. The computer restarts.

  14. Windows prepares to start for the first time. This may take a few minutes.
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  15. Installation completes.
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  16. The computer restarts.

    Note: The following Out of Box Experience (OOBE) screens may vary slightly.

  17. In the Choose a user name and picture screen, enter the appropriate information, and then click Next.
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  18. In the Type a computer name and choose a desktop background screen, enter the appropriate information and then click Next.
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  19. In the Help protect Windows automatically screen, select Use recommended settings.
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  20. In the Review your time and date settings screen, enter appropriate information and then click Next.
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  21. In the Thank You screen, click Start.
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  22. Windows checks the computers performance. Depending on hardware, this process could take from 3 to 15 minutes to complete.
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  23. Windows prepares the desktop.
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  24. Windows Vista installation is complete.

  25. Any updated drivers and applications can be installed. It is recommended to update the antivirus definitions and perform Windows Updates.