If you’ve purchased a new computer over the past couple of years, chances are it contains Windows Vista.  If so, you are one of millions who has experienced slow startups, frequent reboots, hardware and software incompatibilities, and more frustration than any owner of a modern-day computer should ever have to face.  To make matters worse, there doesn’t seem to be much help with these problems.  Take a fast, quality computer, load it up with Vista, and for some reason, it becomes slow and problematic.  To remedy the problem, you have only a couple of choices.  You can reload it with Windows XP or patiently wait around for the next operating system.

Let’s say you want to downgrade to Windows XP.  The first step would involve locating drivers for Windows XP.  Some companies, such as Sony, only offer drivers for the operating system that shipped with the PC.  In most cases, with a little patience, those drivers do exist.  Knowing where to find them may be a bit of a challenge.  If you are able to locate compatible drivers, the next step is to locate an install CD and a new license key for Windows XP.  TigerDirect.com still offers Windows XP OEM ranging from $89.99 to $139.99, depending on which version you want.  Most people will be happy with Windows XP Home at $89.99.

So, you’ve got drivers and you have an XP installation CD.  Now what?  You’ll need to backup your data.  You’ll also need to expect some software to be gone forever.  Most of those little programs that shipped with your computer will not be available for free if available at all.  You’ll need software for DVD playback, CD/DVD burning, and for other hardware such as printers, scanners, cameras, etc.

At this point, you should be ready to convert from Vista to XP.  This is where my advice stops and hopefully your own knowledge of computers takes over.  This may seem like more trouble than it is worth, but when you consider how many problems you’ll avoid in the future, you may just change your mind.  Another option would be to have someone do it for you to save time and prevent costly mistakes.  I can help.