over the top

[Dan]

If I perform an over the top reinstall of Windows98, which disc should I use?
I have a Windows98 FE installation disc, and a Second Edition upgrade disc.....

[GaryRouth]

If you are using the "setup /p f" system file refresh, use the version that's currently installed.

If you are using the "rename win.com win.bak" method, you can use either, but make sure you have your product ID number ready.

The files on the 2nd Edition disk are little more up-to-date, so (assuming the licensing is all OK [the previous machines are resting in peace]) I usually use Win98se given the choice. [less time at Windows Update]

Here's the link to the over-the-top guide I stuck in Tips&Tricks http://forum.pcmech.com/showthread.p...threadid=70846

It covers a few details that make for more work if they're skipped (like the default directory, or forgetting to disable the bios antivirus when reinstalling)
. . . Gary

[Dan]

thanks Gary....

[edfair]

You may want to rename any config.sys or autoexec.bat file on the HD before you start. Otherwise it will be incorporated into the new build, even though it may not be needed.

[GaryRouth]

. . . that's an idea. If you decide to rename those as well, be sure to write down what you rename them to [in case you want to use the settings in there again]. Config.sys is generally empty on recent systems, while autoexec.bat often has a few lines for older sound cards.