When you reinstall Windows, what about internet connection?

[Respectedthroat731]

This might sound like a stupid question,
but if you update Windows Vista to Windows XP, what happens to the internet connection?
Do I have to use a new connection, or does it run just as smoothly without me having to do anything?

[Mlat]

Ok, first off, Vista to XP ISN'T an update, it is a rollback. In order to do that, you will have to wipe the OS and reinstall.

When you reinstall, you will need to reload your internet drivers and by that virtue, you will need to reestablish your internet connection.

[Trevolution]

By default you should be able to access the internet using the ethernet port on any pc right after an install to connect to the internet. You will however have to get drivers to install wireless connections.

[slugbug]

If you are going from Vista to XP as your questions states you need to make sure your computer manufacturer will support this with XP drivers.

If it is supported just go to the technical/support tab of your computer manufacturers website and download your LAN driver onto a usb stick or disc. From there you can install the driver onto your computer. This will allow you to access the manufacturer website directly to download the rest of your drivers.

[Albert W]

Hi there,

Anytime you install or reinstall an operating system you have to go to the control panel or networking and set up your preferred internet connection (just like the first time).

Your computer should be able to connect using a wired connection from the ethernet port directly into the modem or router with no trouble. However if you need a wireless connection your wireless adapter has to have drivers suitable for that operating system. Your Vista OS has drivers for wireless (if that' what you are using) but when you downgrade to XP you will need to have wireless drivers (if you are using wireless).

Short answer: Whatever you do you will need to set up your internet and e-mail connection again.
If you want wireless you will need XP drivers for your wireless adapter.

Hope this helps,
Al