backing up and upgrading operating system

[raydee]

After much deliberation I have purchased a new “My Book World Edition 11. White Light.
I want to eventually use this as a NAS drive.

I would now appreciate some help in what to do next please.

First I must explain that I use two computers. They are both running windows XP Pro.
I intend replacing the older of the two computers for a new one running windows 7 64 bit,
At which time I also want to delete XP from my other computer and then hopefully install windows 7.

I also have to explain that the two machines are not yet networked,
I have tried but I am having problems. But that is another story.
I also have to say that I am a silver surfer trying to get to grips with the new technology and I am having some problems. In other words I am not very good at it.

So at the moment I have the two machines running XP pro and they are loaded with all of the files and folders that I want to keep and to copy over to the two new machines on Windows 7.

Can you please help with how I best go about this?
Do I just go ahead and back up each machine separately.
If so should I try to put each machine on a separate partition of the drive?

If so how do I go about that task?

Then bearing in mind that the back ups are in XP pro, will they then load onto the new machines which will be running Windows 7 or will this cause a compatibility problem?

Any help will be greatly appreciated
Many thanks

 

[PCS]

You can only backup your data, such as your music, pictures, documents, videos, etc. You cannot backup programs that are installed unless you have the .exe file.

I would suggest you create two folders on your new external hard drive - one for each PC and copy across the data. Once you've done this, setup and use your new PC, and transfer the data onto it. Then format the old PC and install windows 7, using the disc you have purchased. (Don't forget our PC's have one Windows 7 licence only, so if you wish to install Windows 7 on two computers, you will need to purchase two licences.)

 

[raydee]

Thank you for your help Super Star.

On the new external hard drive, you say to create two folders.
Is that the same as to create two partitions ?.

Having backed up in XP Pro, 32 bit, will it then be possible to load these saved items onto the new machines which will then be running Windows 7, 64 bit.?.

Upgrading from 32 bit to 64 bit will everything work ok or will it cause a conflict ?.

 

[PCS]

Two folders is easier, just right click, and select "New..." "Folder".

Data stored on 32 bit can be copied to 64 bit no problem, and 99 times out of 100 your hardware will work OK with 64 bit, providing it's not more than 3-4 years old. However, if you're unsure I would check with the individual manufacturer first.

 

[raydee]

Thanks again Super Star.
Thank you for explaining things so clearly which I greatly appreciate.
With regard to your answer “providing it's not more than 3-4 years old. However, if you're unsure I would check with the individual manufacturer first”.

I intend purchasing the replacement machine from PC Specialists so that should cause no problem, and the other pc which I intend to keep was also bought from PCS in August 2006 (ref no. 149338) which makes it just over 4 years old.

What do you think ?.

 

[Sleinous]

Should have bought the Synology DS110j u can even host your own websites on it.

 

[PCS]

Had a quick look at your order and it looks like most of your hardware will be supported. I'm not sure which drivers will be available for your motherboard, so this may be a case of trial and error. However, once you get your new PC, the easiest thing is to pop your new Windows 7 64-bit disc in and install. If it all works, then give us a call and we'll create you an order for an additional licence.

You will need a 64-bit driver for your soundcard, which can be downloaded here: http://support.creative.com/downloads/download.aspx?nDownloadId=11478

 

[raydee]

Super Star,
Thanks for your help.
I will go along with your suggestions.

As you have had a look at my 4 year old spec’ do you think that there are any other items that it would
be better to upgrade?. I rather feel that the machine might work a lot better and faster with some upgraded or maybe replaced items in it.

When should I upgrade the sound card? Can I do this now or should I wait until 64 bit is on board.

 

[PCS]

You need to wait until you've installed your new operating system before you install the 64-bit drivers.

The best way to improve performance on your old PC would be to install a Solid State Drive (SSD) - this will descrease boot times and should help Windows 7 run lightning fast!