7 common questions about upgrading Windows 7
The new operating system from Microsoft is available since few days now and many are wondering how to migrate to Windows 7? Here we will clarify some more things and redefine some subtleties related to Windows 7.
1: Can I update Windows XP to Windows 7?
The simple answer is no. The transition from Windows XP to Windows 7 is not a scenario supported by Microsoft. The choice is questionable, but unfortunately we can not do anything about it. Therefore you have two choices to migrate from a Windows XP to Windows 7:
1. Install updates for Windows Vista and then upgrade to the version of Windows 7. It is a cumbersome procedure but avoiding certain subsequent while handling is necessary.
2. Use the wizard to migrate data available for download from Microsoft. This will copy your data, documents, emails and bookmarks to an external drive (HDD, USB, etc) before proceeding to a full installation of Windows 7 and re-import these items later. But beware, the Transfer Wizard only works with data files: it will not migrate your programs and applications that will be essential to reinstall and reactivate if necessary.
2: Can you update Windows Vista x86 (32 bit) to Windows 7 x64 (64 bit)?
The answer is still negative and disappointing. Indeed, it is not possible to migrate to a 32-bit Windows Vista to a 64-bit versions of Windows 7. The script update is not supported and it will also use the wizard to migrate the data proposed by Microsoft: it will save your files and documents on an external drive and import them back once the new facility is deployed.
3: Can we move from a Windows Vista Business 32-bit to Windows 7 Professional 32 bit?
The answer is yes. The update always goes in the upward direction and it remains on the same code (32/32 bits or 64/64 bits) is supported.
4: Can we move from a Windows Vista Business 32-bit to a Windows 7 Home Premium 32-bit?
Negative response. Microsoft does not infact migrates to an operating system with less editing. If the update is not allowed, it is however possible to do a full install and to use the Windows migration assistant.
5: How to install Windows 7 on a netbook?
Windows 7 is marketed as a DVD with its boxed packed version, or as a disc image in ISO format when it comes to downloading. Problem in the case of a Netbook ... it is difficult to use either format to install Windows 7 as the number one property of a netbook is to be devoid of optical drive.
Microsoft proposes a utility called Windows 7 USB / DVD Download Tool. It can transfer files to install Windows 7 from an ISO image on a USB key and in four steps. Two imperatives:
- You need to have a USB drive with 4 GB of free space;
- You need to have an ISO image of Windows 7.
Since your Netbook is likely to function under Windows XP, the upgrade to Windows 7 will no longer be supported ...
6: Can we do a full installation of Windows 7 with a update disc?
Yes. The main problem here is the activation. By taking a blank hard disk from any Windows installation, with the updated DVD disc you can install Windows 7 to the full version. However, after entering the serial number it probably does not activates. If so, just run it from the freshly installed system, by doing a second installation of Windows 7. The process is somewhat tedious but the system will be activated later without incident, as improbable as it sounds.
7: How do I know if my machine is compatible with Windows 7?
All PC designed for Windows Vista works smoothly with Windows 7. Microsoft has not actually seen the hardware requirements of its flagship operating system. However, for older PCs with Windows XP, use of Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor is recommended. This program will quickly scan your machine to verify that it has many features required to run Windows 7 in good conditions or not.
Download Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor 2
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