I've been told I need to backup my files, erase the whole computer and then install XP. BUT then I come across this article which says just put the XP disk in and install it. WHAT IS THE RIGHT WAY? I have a Satellite A300
THIS IS WHAT THE ARTICLE SAID:::: Whatever your reasons, you may find yourself with a new Toshiba Satellite A300 laptop and need to put XP onto the system. Whether this is due to the fact that you're replacing a Vista or 7 operating system or because the computer was purchased without an operating system, the process for installation is the same.
Difficulty:
Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
* XP installation disc
1.
* 1
Open your optical drive and insert your Windows XP installation disc. Close the drive and the autoplay feature should begin the install process. If this fails to initialize, click on "My Computer" and look for the letter to your optical drive. Right-click on that letter and choose "Autoplay."
* 2
Enter your product license key when requested to do so, click "Enter" and the installation will proceed. You will be asked what type of installation you want. Unless you are an expert it is best to choose "Typical". This will load the program as it is most commonly used.
* 3
After installation, reboot the computer. This will probably take place automatically, but if the computer should ask permission, click "OK" and allow the rebooting process. After the computer reboots you will begin setting up XP for first use.
Update:R.B. So if I back everything up, install XP without deleting Vista, that will work? Do you know if I will have to reinstall drivers? And which ones?
Answers & Comments
Verified answer
What the article doesn't mention is that you will loose all your data. It doesn't convert it back, it re installs XP. If you want to save anything, you need to copy what you want saved on an external drive, flash card, cd/dvd or what ever media you like. All programs will be lost and need to be re-installed.
Edit: Additional: I must admit that just out of habit I did check with Toshiba and there several installation guides and original drivers for your A300 series Satellite that will ensure a successful reversion to the XP version of windows. The address is as follows...http://www.csd.toshiba.com/cgi-bin/tais/support/js... There you just choose laptops as your category, Satellite as the family, and finally the model number. You should find more than you want to know there.
Downgrading isn't supported. That procedure would work if you had an older version of Windows, but not a new one. You need to format the hard drive and do a clean install. Be aware that if your computer came with Vista, XP may not run on it. Before starting, you'll need to locate and download XP drivers for all of the hardware and burn them to CD, assuming they even exist.
Works for me.