changed op - reinstalling software

FirstTimer4Me

hiya

following some advice on here i've changed op system from vista to xp

is there any order in which i should reinstall software onto the machine?

i'm no expert what so ever with computers so i'm sure i'll be back at some stage asking for help

ta for any help i'd be lost without you guys

Insomnica

Not really, but if you have XP there are way to make your headaches go away.

1. Install 'Windows XP Service Pack 2' or 3 depending if you already have 2.
2. Install '.NET Framework 2.0', this is a must-have today.
3. From here on in, all your other programs should install without problems.

(Seem to be your techie guardian angel today )

fwor

I would usually start with firewall (unless behind a router and/or dedicated firewall, or if you're happy to use the Windows firewall that gets added with SP1/2) and AV software. Then install the Service Packs, then do a Windows Update. Then go onto the PC/laptop maker's website and download/install the latest drivers for the on-board devices, plus any add-on cards such as graphics adapters.

You may be forced to do that last step earlier if you get bluescreens or crashes while trying to do the earlier stages.

Then go on to install applications like OpenOffice/MSOffice, your preferred browser alternative to IE, etc.

FirstTimer4Me

ta for the help you 2

i'll do what people suggest but can i ask what is this for (seems important as you suggest it must be done toady)

Insomnica wrote: »

2. Install '.NET Framework 2.0', this is a must-have today

[Deleted User]

Accidentally hit thanks there..

The .NET Framework is a requirement for a lot of software to actually be able to work.

FirstTimer4Me

anewhope wrote: »

Accidentally hit thanks there..

The .NET Framework is a requirement for a lot of software to actually be able to work.

cheers for the confirmation makes sence once i know.

i'm sorry to bother you all i really am but i just don't understand anything about computers, here's my 1st problem

i cannot connect to the intertnet on the laptop - desktop is connected ok but not laptop.

i have a netgear wrg614 connected to a virgin modem.

i've tried this on the laptop start - control panel - network connections - under network connections only "local are connection" is showing - yet on the desktop "network wireless connection & local area conection" are listed.




the other issue is the resoloution on the laptop looks blurred / strectched.

Jaffa.

FirstTimer4Me wrote: »

cheers for the confirmation makes sence once i know.

i'm sorry to bother you all i really am but i just don't understand anything about computers, here's my 1st problem

i cannot connect to the intertnet on the laptop - desktop is connected ok but not laptop.

i have a netgear wrg614 connected to a virgin modem.

i've tried this on the laptop start - control panel - network connections - under network connections only "local are connection" is showing - yet on the desktop "network wireless connection & local area conection" are listed.




the other issue is the resoloution on the laptop looks blurred / strectched.

Have you plugged the laptop into the router using a cable? If not plug it in via a cable and see if you get a connection, if you dont then you need the drivers for your NIC (network card)

You can change the resolution under display settings if you put that in the start menu search box you should come up with it, but chances are you will need display drivers

What make and model laptop do you own? Should be able to give you a link to the correct drivers

FirstTimer4Me

hiya jaffa

ta for your help the laptop worked ok before i changed the op

Jaffa. wrote: »

Have you plugged the laptop into the router using a cable? If not plug it in via a cable and see if you get a connection, if you dont then you need the drivers for your NIC (network card)

no i've not plugged the laptop into the router i'll give it a go if i can find a cable.

You can change the resolution under display settings if you put that in the start menu search box you should come up with it, but chances are you will need display drivers

right ok understood that.

What make and model laptop do you own? Should be able to give you a link to the correct drivers

it's this machine: EI SYSTEMS 1212 RECON

i'm greatful for your help

FirstTimer4Me

hiya

Jaffa. wrote: »

Have you plugged the laptop into the router using a cable? If not plug it in via a cable and see if you get a connection, if you dont then you need the drivers for your NIC (network card)

i plugged a lead into the router and into the machine and am able to get onto the internet ok but when i took the lead out of the machine and tried the internet i'm unable to get a connection

any idea what i do now?

espresso

FirstTimer4Me wrote: »

hiya

i plugged a lead into the router and into the machine and am able to get onto the internet ok but when i took the lead out of the machine and tried the internet i'm unable to get a connection

any idea what i do now?

So your Ethernet port is working fine and now you probably need to install drivers for the built-in wireless adapter, so that you can use that to connect. Have you looked in Windows key + Pause/Break key, Hardware, Device Manager?

FirstTimer4Me

ta for helping

espresso wrote: »

Have you looked in Windows key + Pause/Break key, Hardware, Device Manager?

no i've not got a clue with computers i have to rely on the people here to guide me.