Upgrading from Windows XP?
Please read these instructions carefully and completely before you begin installing Windows 7: There are important steps that you need to follow to upgrade from your PC from Windows XP to Windows 7 in order to preserve your files and settings.
Before you begin, you'll need to back up all your data to an external storage device, and you'll need all of the installation discs for programs you want to keep. Please make sure you have an external hard drive (see details below).
More detailed instructions are available at windows.microsoft.com/upgrade-windows-xp. Here are the basic steps.
1. Run Windows Upgrade Advisor (windows.microsoft.com/upgradeadvisor) to see if there are any known issues that might affect the installation and whether you should install the 32 or 64 bit version of Windows 7.
2. Save your files and settings on an external hard drive using Windows Easy Transfer (windows.microsoft.com/windows-easy-transfer). If you don't have an external hard drive you won't be able to use Windows Easy Transfer. Alternatively, you can copy files you want to keep on a USB flash drive, CDs, or DVDs.
3. You'll need to manually reinstall your programs, such as Microsoft Office, after you install Windows 7. Gather the installation discs for your programs and any associated product/license keys. You might be able to download some programs from the Internet. For example, Windows Live Messenger can be installed from download.live.com/messenger.
4. Inset the Windows 7 DVD into your PC. When asked 'Which type of installation do you want? click 'Custom (advanced).'
5. After Windows 7 is installed, use Windows Easy Transfer to restore your files and settings.
If you're not comfortable installing Windows 7 yourself, check with a local retail store or PC services company to see if they offer upgrade services. Teching It Easy: With Windows ActiveWin Notebooks Microsoft MVP