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CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 Windows Operating Systems Overview

Discovering the History of Windows

DOS—The Precursor

Windows 3.1—The GUI

Windows Evolution

Understanding the OS Architecture

The Layers in Windows

Windows Compared to Other Systems

Identifying Windows Interfaces

Using the GUI Interface

Using the Command Prompt Interface

Using Windows PowerShell

The Essentials and Beyond

CHAPTER 2 Installing Windows

Exploring OS Editions

Comparing Windows Editions

Defining System Requirements

Using the PC Upgrade Advisor

Planning Clean Installs vs. Upgrades

Understanding Upgrade Paths

Considering Application Compatibility

Planning for Upgrades

Planning for Clean Installs

Understanding Installation Types

Installing from Removable Media

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