do i need to prepare my computer before making hardware upgrades?

Justin Casten: It really depends on the type of hardware you want to put in. If say its just more RAM or new radiator, then no, if its something more serious, like changing the processor I would recommend making an external backup (i.e. norton ghost). However that's just a recommendation. Personally, I've changed every bit of my pc since getting it. I have never made any sort of preparations before changing hardware, and it was always fine; if something went wrong, i could reinstall the whole system and had all my important files on an external HDD. If you don't have reinstall discs for your system, i strongly recommend making a ghost copy :)...Show more

Lashawnda Anteby: I agree with the Above Answer, Although i would also suggest running Windows Update as well, Make sure you set a restore point before doing anything though. Just my opinion.

Ismael Sixon: only improve from AMD Athlon II X2 260 to Athlon II x6 or Phenom the processor of four cores! purchase a ! sparkling video card Nvidia - it truly is the only excellent GPU's for gaming. The Radeon playing cards isn't for heavy video games :) improve and get more suitable RAM and be at liberty!

Oscar Wieland: It depend on what components you are going to change and what operating system you use.For eg changing certain component might lead you to reactivate the Latest Microsoft operating systemsWindows XP and later will bring you a BSOD if you change a different chipset motherboardIf you are upgrading Ram/Graphic card / Secondary Drives no problem at all...Show more

Ronnie Panas: If its a windows PC then you have plug and play which does not use any software, the only thing is whatever you add to the computer will be picked up and the driver would normally be added automatically, if it isn't install the software that came with the add on. upgrading memory if that is what you are doing needs a bit of care due to static and if you put the wrong memory in will cause probl! ems. you don't say what your adding, but if in doubt back up y! our computer before doing anything that is a golden rule....Show more

Joaquin Dronko: Whenever you are going to do anything that involves opening up the case on your computer, BACKUP YOUR DATA. You don't necessarily have to backup the entire drive, but at the very least backup photos, music, downloads, etc. Whatever files that can't be replaced, should be backed up.You may know what you are doing and may have done it 100's of times. During a simple upgrade at work something shorted against my hard drive and wiped it out. Backup your data....Show more

David Boehler: It really depends on what hardware you want to Upgrade.To help you better could you post what you want to upgrade and what you are thinking of upgrading too .that way we can help you better .