How to Install Windows XP on 64-Bit Laptops
Windows XP has a 64-bit version available that allows you to take advantage of 64-bit processors and large amounts of memory. Anyone who spends a lot of time working on graphic- or processor-intensive programs gains the most benefit from the 64-bit version of Windows XP. Windows XP only has one 64-bit version, Windows XP Professional 64-bit. This release is geared more towards professional and enthusiast demographics, so a Windows XP Home version was not released in 64-bit.
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Instructions
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Back up all of your important files and folders before starting the installation process. You'll need to do a full install for 64-bit operating systems like Windows XP Professional 64-bit. When you do a full install, you'll delete all information on the hard drive, making the backup very important.
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Insert the Windows XP Professional 64-bit installation disk in the computer. Restart the computer. Hit any key on the keyboard when you see "Hit any key to boot from CD" on the screen.
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Press "Enter" to start the Windows installation process. Hit "F8" when the Microsoft Windows license agreement appears.
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Delete the current operating system partition by selecting it using the arrow keys and pressing "D" to delete the partition and "L" to confirm. Repeat this process with any other partitions you wish to reformat during the installation process. The only partition you need to delete is the one on which the current operating system is located.
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Hit "C" to make a new partition. Choose the size of the partition. The Windows XP installation defaults to the largest size possible. Choose a lower number if you want to create multiple partitions during the installation process. Choose your new partition with the arrow keys and hit "Enter." Select "Format the partition by using the NTFS file system." Repeat this process if you have multiple partitions to prepare.
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Select the formatted partition on which you want to install Windows XP. Hit "Enter" to start the installation process. You'll see a progress bar and a status bar indicating the files that it is copying over to the hard disk. The computer reboots when the files are completely copied over. Remove the Windows XP 64-bit installation disk from the laptop.
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Review the language and region settings that appear on the graphical installation window. Usually the default settings are correct and you can hit "Next." Enter your name in the "Name" field. Enter your organization or business name in the "Organization" field, if applicable. You do not have to enter anything in the organization field if it does not apply to your situation. Click "Next."
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Find the 25-digit installation key on the back of your Windows XP 64-bit disk sleeve. Enter this key into the fields provided and click "Next" when complete. Choose a computer name and administrative password. The administrative password is recommended by Microsoft but you do not need to enter one. Click "Next."
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Use the drop-down menus and the clock to adjust the time, date and time zone settings. Click "Next" twice, then enter your workgroup name if you are using a workgroup on your network. Click "Next." The Windows XP 64-bit installation process will complete and restart your laptop.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure that you have access to 64-bit drivers for all peripherals you are using with the laptop. The laptop's computer components have the right drivers since it is a 64-bit machine, but printers, keyboards and other peripherals may not be compatible with a 64-bit operating system.
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