How to Upgrade from Windows Vista to Windows 7

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Last Updated: April 27, 2024

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Tired of Vista, but feel you have to still use it? Well, why stick with Vista, when you can upgrade to Microsoft's new release, Windows 7? Follow these steps to join the Windows 7 rave. The first 4 steps are optional, but strongly recommended.

Steps

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1. 
   1
   Download the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor.
2. 
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   Run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor installer.
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3. 
   3
   Run the actual upgrade advisor once it is installed. Remember to plug in any devices that you regularly use (printers, scanners, MP3 players etc).
4. 
   4
   Once the program's done its thing, look at the report. Save and/or print it (you will need it).
5. 5
   Do one of the following:

   • If you purchased Windows 7 online, open the installation file. This is the easiest way to install Windows 7 on a netbook. More info on this can be found here.
     
   • If you have an installation disk, insert it into your computer. Setup should begin automatically. If it doesn't, go to Start>Computer>CD/DVD drive>setup.exe.
     
6. 
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   You will now see an Install Windows page. Click the link Install Now.
7. 
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   You will be taken to a page titled "Get important updates for installation". It is recommended that you choose to install these updates to help ensure a successful installation. (Refer to Tips)
8. 
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   You should now see a license agreement. If you accept the terms, click "I accept the license terms", and then click Next.
9. 
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   You will now have a choice of Upgrade and Custom. Click Upgrade. You might see a compatibility report.
10. 
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    Follow the instructions to install Windows 7.
11. 
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    You're done!
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Tips

• If you have a 32-bit version of Vista, you can only upgrade to a 32-bit version of Win7. If you have a 64-bit version of Vista, you can only upgrade to a 64-bit version of Win7. To find out which one of these you can upgrade to, go to Control Panel>System and look at System Type.
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• If you use a fingerprint reader or another biometric device to access your computer, write down your password before upgrading, for you will need to log on using your password when you first log on after the upgrade.
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• You need to be connected to the Internet during Windows 7 installation to install the updates; however, you can still install Windows 7 without them.
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Warnings

• Back up your data before you upgrade.
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