Upgrading XP Home to Pro?

[JTH]

I have a long-running problem whereby I can only fileshare one way on a home network of two computers. Both are running OEM versions of XP Home. I have XP Pro and I want to try it what that OS and its "simple filesharing" feature.

But before I mess with my existing Windows install, I was wondering whether if I upgrade them whether all my files/installed programs/internet settings etc will be intact? Does anyone know of any problems in an XP Home to Pro upgrade?

By the way, I am running SP2 on both Home machines, and SP2 is also slipstreamed into my XP Pro.

[sdkfz]

I beleive that as long as the new OS is asnew or newer (SP wise) that tne old you can do an upgrade install, I'd still prefer a straight install anyway -cleaner results.

[Panama Red]

I would think you should be able to do a Repair/Install using the XP Pro Sp2 but it will ask for the new Product Key and require activation. I don't think this is the solution to your filesharing problem however. My home network uses a combination of XP Home machines (3), XP Pro (3) and a dual boot 98se/2K machine. All can file share without any problems. I'd be more inclined to think some network setting is amiss.

[JTH]

Well would do you think it would hurt to do an upgrade to XP Pro anyway for added functionality (it may just also do what I need)?

[macko72]

Originally Posted by JTH I have a long-running problem whereby I can only fileshare one way on a home network of two computers. Both are running OEM versions of XP Home. I have XP Pro and I want to try it what that OS and its "simple filesharing" feature. But before I mess with my existing Windows install, I was wondering whether if I upgrade them whether all my files/installed programs/internet settings etc will be intact? Does anyone know of any problems in an XP Home to Pro upgrade? By the way, I am running SP2 on both Home machines, and SP2 is also slipstreamed into my XP Pro.

Simple file sharing is default on XP Home edition if you installing XP pro just because of that it's pointless!!!

To found out more read thru this web site: http://wesp.wur.nl/forum/showthread.php?t=123

[Panama Red]

Originally Posted by JTH Well would do you think it would hurt to do an upgrade to XP Pro anyway for added functionality (it may just also do what I need)?

The only real "added functionality" are things you would only use in a business environment using a domain network. The upgrade is really just a waste of money. Too many folks think Professional sounds better than Home when it comes to naming their operating system. In reality, home users don't need Pro.

[JTH]

Well I solved my networking issue, so I probably won't bother upgrading. If I need to do a clean install in the future, I will pop in XP Pro.