Wiping Windows

[55andraining]

I am so fed up with Windows Vista.  Not only does it constantly lose my audio driver, now it has slowed to a crawl on my internet connection, and I don't know why.  My mac is running perfectly fine on the same Wireless Router.  And Vista tries to update itself online but it fails every time.

I want to wipe my computer and install Windows XP from an

Comments

[rminct]

If you have a desktop (that's what I assumed in quoting the price range above), the hardest part is figuring out how to get the cover off. The drive is fairly obvious and usually removing 2-4 screws will set it free. It will probably have a power cable (3-5 wires) and a data cable (flat multi-conductor) that can be unplugged. Reverse the process to install the new drive.
If you have a laptop, there is usually a panel on the bottom that can be removed with a few screws, then the drive can be unplugged from it's socket (power and data together) and slid out. Also, for a laptop there isn't usually space to install a second drive inside the case. If you want to "recycle" the old drive eventually, a number of companies make a USB box that will hold a laptop drive (Apricorn for example). Also, the drives for a laptop cost a bit more (typically $100 - $150) although sometimes you can find a bargain.
It's probably a good idea to have a look at the old drive before buying a new one so you make sure you get something compatible.
Best advice - find a local computer nerd to help. :)

[55andraining]

Any local nerds out there willing to help? Aaron?