preparing for clean install

curlew · #1 July 29th, 2005, 01:28 PM

I have windows 98 on my computer, and want to replace it with 98SE. I want to remove 98 completely as the 98SE I have is the full thing, not an upgrade. Apart from backing up drivers and other files I will want to put back on, is it just a matter of formatting the c drive to get it ready for a fresh install of windows 98SE? Thanks in advance.

RoyGBiv · #2 July 29th, 2005, 01:35 PM

Back up any data and drivers which you need for Win98. Then, make sure you have a floppy boot disk which supports CD ROM. Depending on your computer and its BIOS you may not be able to boot directly to a CD. Once you have made the disk TRY IT! Once you are sure it works boot to the floppy and format drive C. You can also partition it if you like. Then boot again and change to the drive letter of your CD that has Windows 98SE in it (if you haven't partitioned your hard drive, it will be "D") and type "setup".

SMK

**Miz** · #3 July 29th, 2005, 02:25 PM

You might also want to review how to use fdisk to delete and restore partitions. There's a good tutorial starting on this page. Fdisk is used before formatting.

Be absolutely certain you have the Windows product key before you start. Without it, you won't be able to complete the reinstallation of Windows.

I also recommend to make sure you have the complete driver package for whatever you use to get online (modem or network card). If you don't have the installation CD for it, download the drivers and save them to CD. That way, if the driver backup you plan to use doesn't work, you will be able to install the modem or network card and get online to download the other drivers you need.