How to Convert Windows XP Home to Professional
- 1). Back up all of your files and data that you want to save onto backup media, such as an external hard drive or a series of DVDs. This process can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on how much data you have on your computer.
- 2). Remove your backup media from your computer.
- 3). Insert your Windows XP Professional CD into your computer's CD tray, and wait for the installation window to appear. If the window does not appear automatically, open Windows Explorer (press Start, then go to All Programs), browse to the CD and double-click on the setup.exe file.
- 4). Select the Install Windows XP option, then choose Upgrade from the menu.
- 5). Your computer will continue through the automated upgrade process. You will be asked to enter your Windows XP Professional CD key during this process. Once the upgrade finishes (usually 1 to 2 hours on average), you will be asked to set the clock of the computer and to choose other personalized options.
- 6). Right-click on "My Computer" and look at the computer information tab to verify that Windows XP Professional is shown as the installed operating system.