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How do I upgrade to Windows 7 from Vista successfully?

Submitted by admin on Sunday, 13 December 20098 Comments
windows 7
UCLA kid, Go BRUINS!!! asked:


Ok I have windows vista but I want windows 7. So I am planning on getting windows 7 on release date. Now I have never upgraded a computer before and I just bought my laptop in august 2009. How do I successfully upgrade without losing my stuff like:

Sims 3 data, Office and school documents, music for Zune HD, and programs I downloaded to my computer.

Can I just upgrade and everything will be fine? Please help!

8 Comments »

  • Mike S said:

    I would create a backup to be safe, but just install Windows 7 normally and it should keep your files… I’ve never tried it though…

    - 14 December 2009 at 4:10 am
  • Peter said:

    Like Mike said, make sure you do a backup, just because you should do a backup any time you make a major change to your computer. Then, you can pop in the install disc, follow the instructions, and let it work.

    - 14 December 2009 at 9:04 pm
  • AJ said:

    Yes, you can just upgrade and all your data will be fine.

    I would suggest the other way. That is to backup all your data that you mentioned. Then do a clean install of Win7.

    Rule of thumb whenever possible, do a clean install.

    Oh yeah, the ugrade versions of Win7 do allow you to do a clean install.

    - 16 December 2009 at 10:35 am
  • Yahoo! Answers Fanatic! said:

    You can upgrade and everything will be unaffected.
    Be sure to make a minor backup just in case.

    To upgrade:
    -Start windows normally so you can see the desktop.
    -Closed any unwanted programs that open at startup.
    -Insert the windows 7 installation disc.
    -It will load it up. (If not, double click on the disc on My Computer)
    -Click “Install Now”
    -Follow the prompts and until you get to Upgrade or Clean Install.
    -Click Upgrade.
    -Windows will begin to upgrade.

    Congrats, you installed Windows 7 “on top of” Vista.

    - 17 December 2009 at 11:39 pm
  • Computerichy said:

    when you install windows 7 choose to upgrade but backup on external hard drive or usb or something to ensure safety

    - 19 December 2009 at 10:48 pm
  • D-fence said:

    You should install and run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor. It will tell you what programs will work and won’t work. It will tell you if your computer is ready to upgrade, and if everything will work O.K.

    Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor:

    - 21 December 2009 at 5:59 am
  • music lover said:

    If you are ready for an upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7, we can help make the process painless and hassle free.

    iYogi provides the most comprehensive programs for migrating to Windows 7. From free migration utility to advanced tools for migrating your applications to professional installation by a Microsoft Certified Expert.

    - 22 December 2009 at 11:37 pm
  • mallevonlentman said:

    Step 1 - put the cd in your rom

    Step 2 - Click Install Now

    Step 3 - Leave and come back 30 minutes later

    Step 4 - log in and your good to go.

    Seriously, Windows 7 install process is incredibly simple and you will not loose any of your old data so no need to backup.

    - 27 December 2009 at 2:21 am

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