Title: Module 6 Introduction
Course: CGS 1560 Microcomputer Operating Systems > Section: Module 6 - Operating System Installation

After deciding on which operating system to use, the next phase is completing the installation. There are four steps in this process. (1) Determine what type of installation you will do, an upgrade or a completely new installation called a clean install. (2) Perform a hardware compatibility test to ensure that your system will load and run with minimal difficulty. (3) Go through the installation procedures. (4) Apply any system updates, patches, or fixes.

There are many impediments to an installation that can be encountered before or during an installation. A problem that is often encountered when determining the type of installation concerns the upgrade path. Does your previous OS meet the requirements for an in-place upgrade? Are there problems with hardware compatibility? Will the upgrade, patch or fix take care of any minor problems that you may have encountered? These are all questions that may arise during the course of an installation.

Knowing the proper procedures to perform an installation and being able to follow them can alleviate many of the headaches often associated with installations. The two major problems that may be encountered if proper procedures are not followed are aborting an installation and/or loss of data. Performing a compatibility check allows you to make corrections prior to starting the installation. Backing up the system and data prior to attempting an upgrade is part of the preparation process and is a necessary step to avoid loss of data. Knowledge of and adherence to the proper procedures is essential in performing a successful installation.

Instructional Goal

The purpose of this module is to understand how to install an operating system (OS).

Module Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

- Explain the difference between an OS upgrade and clean install
- Perform the necessary steps to prepare an OS installation
- Install one or more OSs
- Update an OS with any appropriate upgrades, patches or fixes

Readings and Resources

- Textbook, Chapter 5

- IDC Raises Its Worldwide Tablet Forecast on Continued Strong Demand and Forthcoming New Product Launches
http://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prUS23696912