How to Change an Operating System
An operating system is a computer’s core processing software, especially in the case of home computers. Operating systems provide the user with a graphical interface in which the user can interact with the computer itself. There are many operating systems available, most of which differ in design, function, and capabilities. However, most operating systems provide a core workstation (desktop), file storage, a taskbar, and a number of programs that assist the user in everything from calculations and networking to word processing and email.
Backup
The first thing to do when changing a computer from one operating system to another is to backup all data, settings, and files before any modifications are performed. This prevents the user from losing any important information in case of malfunction or accidental deletion of the hard drive’s main partition. In fact, changing the operating system almost always involves reformatting the hard disk, which also deletes everything stored on the hard drive. Users can backup their files by copying all data to another hard drive, burning it to a CD/DVD, or uploading it to an online server.
Obtain Operating System Disk
After all of the user’s files have been safely copied to a new location, the user needs to obtain a copy of the operating system he/she wishes to install on his/her hard drive. Operating system disks can be purchased in computer stores, online, or through local vendors. Bootleg copies are widely available on torrent networks, although the latter may be illegal in most circumstances.
Reformat
After the user has obtained a copy of the operating system, the next step is to reformat the hard drive and install the new operating system. This can be done by booting from the operating system disk and following the on-screen instructions in order to delete the current partition and install the new operating system. While this can take up to several hours to completely install, a good copy of any operating system increases the computer’s performance.
Reload
Once a new operating system is installed on the user’s computer, the user should boot the computer from the hard drive without the disk being in the disk tray. This ensures that the operating system was successfully installed on the user’s hard drive and not simply running from the disk. The user’s next step is to reset his/her settings and copy his/her files from the backup location to the hard drive.
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