Upgrading From Windows XP to Windows 7

Don't Buy a New Computer - Upgrade from XP to Windows 7

Sep 14, 2009

Microsoft doesn't recommend it but, with a bit of effort, a knowledgeable user can upgrade their Windows XP computer to Windows 7 and skip the new hardware purchase.

Anyone who considering upgrading directly from Windows XP to Windows 7, after it is released on October 22, 2009, should be aware that Microsoft recommends purchasing a new PC instead of upgrading.

The upgrade from XP to Windows 7 is not a simple operation where all applications and files remain in place. The jump from XP to Windows 7 means backing up current files and settings, performing a custom installation, and then reinstalling files, settings, and programs. Anyone unfamiliar with any of these processes should have the upgrade done instead by a professional computer service provider.

Check Current Configuration for Windows 7 Compatibility

Microsoft has developed a Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor that will scan and advise XP and Vista users on the compatibility of their current system.

Download, install, and run the Advisor (still in Beta as of this publication date). The Advisor will generate a report indicating if the PC can run Windows 7 and whether or not there are any compatibility issues. If compatibility is a problem and if it can be resolved, the Advisor will offer suggestions for the next step.

If compatibility is not a problem, the next step will be to create a back up copy of all data before upgrading. Ensure that the backup utility used will be compatible with Windows 7. The upgrade procedure will place all data files into a folder called Windows.old where data should be safe and accessible. Nonetheless, a backup is always advisable when upgrading operating systems

Prepare XP Installation for Windows 7

The applications installed under Windows XP will not work when Windows 7 is installed. Applications that pass the Upgrade Advisor compatibility test will have to be re-installed. Ensure that copies of all the applications installation files are at hand, either on CD or create a list of websites where the installation files can be downloaded.

Windows 7 comes with a transfer utility that will scan the XP installation and transfer all data and settings to Windows 7. The Windows 7 Easy Transfer is run once on the XP installation to record and backup the XP files. Once the update is complete, the transfer utility is run again to move the files and settings to the new system.

Get to Know Windows 7

The user interface (UI) in Windows 7 is considerably different from Windows XP. Becoming familiar with the new UI before plunging ahead with the upgrade might help to alleviate some stress around setting up the new system. The Microsoft product pages for Windows 7 offer screenshots and videos that will familiarize users to the new interface.

Consider setting up a multiboot configuration by placing Windows XP and Windows 7 into separate partitions on the hard drive. Boot into XP to check how something is setup and then boot into Windows 7 to recreate the same setup. Once Windows 7 is setup as needed, then the Windows XP partition can be removed.

If some applications currently running under XP are not compatible with Windows 7, the Windows XP Mode feature of Windows 7 will help. Windows XP Mode uses a new version of Virtual PC that gives seamless access to XP applications. It’s an exciting feature of Windows 7 and one that acknowledges the importance Windows XP has for its users.

The copyright of the article Upgrading From Windows XP to Windows 7 in PC Software/OS is owned by Marianne Lepa. Permission to republish Upgrading From Windows XP to Windows 7 in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.