Windows 7 will be released for general distribution on October 22, 2009. Users can upgrade from Windows Vista and Windows XP. There are many improvements with Windows 7 over the Windows Vista operating system. For more details, read this list of Windows 7 features and functions different than those provided with Windows Vista.
To be sure that Windows 7 will run on your computer, download, install and use the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor. Also, read about the hardware requirements for Windows 7.
Upgrade From Windows Vista
For Windows Vista, it is important that you have all latest services packs installed before attempting to upgrade to Windows 7. If Vista has worked well with the hardware on your computer, most likely, your PC will upgrade and use Windows 7 without problem.
Upgrade From Windows XP
For Windows XP users, it will be a bit more challenging. Microsoft recommends “you experience Windows 7 on a new PC” – this is only because there are hardware requirements that XP systems may not have. Also, the installation of Windows 7 is more complex.
- Computer Hardware Requirements - Computer hardware has changed a lot since Windows XP first released. Even computers purchased recently with Windows XP may not be compatible.
- Not An Upgrade Process - Installation of Windows 7 must be clean - meaning that it is not an upgrade, it is a new installation of an operating system. To install Windows 7, you’ll need to back up all your current work files, photos, music, bookmarks and other settings onto a CD, DVD or other type of media. Next, you will perform a custom (clean) install of Windows 7; then you will reinstall all files, settings and programs.