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How To Build A Computer

Step Two:
Operating Systems (O/Ss) Introductions

Windows Operating systems, or O/Ss, differ widely in their ability to install easily. If you're a newbie to O/S installations, there are a few things you should be told.


In order of their dates of introduction:


Windows 95

Windows 95 installation requires a full working knowledge of DOS. I must tell you that you can expect a Win 95 installation to be frustrating.

A hybrid version of the earlier Windows® 3.x with some qualities of an early version of Windows NT® operating system, Windows® 95 was a huge advancement for that time. But it had problems with stability; so much so that I recall counting the days until Windows® 98 would be released by our friend Bill. Technically speaking, problems associated with Windows® 95 were generally due to a backward compatibility issue with the older 16-bit software written for DOS and Windows® 3.x. Nevertheless, Windows® 95 has its place in computer history as one of the most important operating systems.

If you already have a computer that works well with Windows® 95, I recommend you leave 'well enough alone' and do not consider upgrading.

If for some reason you decide to install good ole' Windows® 95 into a new computer, I suggest that you only use device drivers that are written specifically for Windows® 95. This will speed everything up and will make your life a easier. Win 95 does support "Plug 'n Play" which makes the installation of components usually easy.


Windows 98

Windows 98 installation requires some knowledge of DOS, but not if the installation is an upgrade. This is an important consideration in selecting which O/S to select. You can also expect a Win 98 installation to be frustrating.

Even though it was criticized as nothing more than a de-bugged Windows® 95 with some extra bells and whistles added, in 1998 when it became available, it was paradise compared to the temperamental Windows® 95. Windows® 98 improvements include the integration of Internet Explorer (IE) into the operating system, improved Help, the addition of troubleshooting wizards, better DVD, improved USB, and multiple monitor support. Generally, Windows® 98 is a better choice than Windows® 95. Windows® 98 is best for the old Pentium II processors with at least 64 MB memory.


Windows NT

Windows NT® is the beginning of a line of computer operating systems that is separate from the Windows® 95 line. This O/S was designed for business and technical users. It has developed into a progressive line of "mature" operating systems known for multitasking, advanced security, network support, power, steadfast stability, and dependability. Undoubtedly a lot of this is due to a brilliant crash prevention capability that usually works well. (Nothing's perfect.)

Because of its solid strengths, Windows NT® should not be upgraded to another O/S. However, Windows NT® is not a first choice for new O/S selection. A constant problem with Windows NT® has been compatibility issues with hardware, for which it has a rocky history. It does not support "Plug 'n Play" making hardware and software application installation (including games) tedious, and at times extremely difficult to impossible to install. It is highly advisable to use hardware and software specifically certified to work with Windows NT®. Software application selection is more limited than for later Windows O/Ss.

If you wish to install Windows NT®, and you have limited experience with O/S installations, you will need a lot of help of a professional technician. It is difficult.


Windows 2000

Windows 2000 is based on the Windows NT® "kernel." In fact, it is sometimes referred to as Windows NT® 5.0; and it can be thought of as the next generation in the blend of the security, manageability, and reliability of Windows NT® with the user-friendly Windows® 98. Of course, a variety of operational goodies were thrown in. It is clearly an improvement over both older operating systems.

A few of the advances include support for multiple processors, support for hundreds of languages, enhanced USB speed, support for FireWire (IEEE 1394 standard), off-line viewing of files and folders, enhanced Windows® speed, thumbnail viewing of graphics before opening, and the ability to "Hibernate", or to automatically turn off the computer and monitor at a set time. That is only a partial list. This is the best Windows up to this point.

If you wish to install Windows 2000, and you have limited experience with O/S installations, you will need help because this installation is complicated and requires a professional technician.


Windows ME

Windows ME, or Windows Millennium, was rushed to market with numerous problems. This O/S is very unstable, this means it will crash your computer completely and repeatedly. Avoid this O/S.


Windows Server 2003

Previously referred to as the "dot net server," Windows Server 2003 is the latest generation of Windows NT® kernel-based O/S after Windows 2000. This is a server best used in a large corporation or large institutional environment. However, there is at least one version available for Small Business. However, it is not practical for most small business unless the owner is a very well experienced computer technician with Server 2003 training and certification. It is clearly NOT suitable for personal use. It is expensive.


Windows XP

Windows XP is Recommended. This is an excellent operating system. It is usually easy to install and is very stable. It has loads of features and it is inexpensive. Mostly, we like XP because it will play our older games, software, and hardware. However, the days of Windows XP are numbered.

If you can get your hands on a legal copy of Windows XP, espcially Windows XP Professional, that would be good.


Windows Vista

Windows Vista is now found on many new computers, Windows Vista is reliable and it is an excellent O/S for general computer operations in the home and for small-to-medium business.

Vista is more "advanced" than Windows XP. Of course, they also advanced the price. There is a very sticky problem with pre-Vista games, software, and hardware, none of which can be used with Vista. That can be a problem. Nevertheless, there is no doubt, Windows Vista is the O/S of the future. Installation, which is with a DVD, is said to be fairly easy.

For more information about Windows XP and Windows Vista, please read Part 4 - Operating Systems in the Computer Buying Guide, as well as Step 18: Operating System Installation, later in this tutorial.


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Tutorial Table of ContentsStep Three: Case Preparation

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