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Things to Consider before Upgrading to Windows 7

By mia 26 October 2009 11 Comments

As you may be aware, it is our goal to pass along our experiences with Windows 7 in order to give you an honest assessment of the operating system.  We are going through the process of figuring out Windows 7 just like any other user, so if you are thinking of getting the new OS you can take advantage of our insights and blunders.  With that in mind, here are a few things you need to know before upgrading:

Will you be upgrading from XP or Vista? Windows 7 was designed to be upgraded from Vista and Microsoft is subtly suggesting that XP users should consider getting a new PC for Windows 7.  If you are an XP user, the process of upgrading will be more complicated and may require the help of a computer service professional.  At the minimum, it will require backing up your current files, programs and settings and doing a custom (clean) installation.

Are the digital media features important to you? Streaming TV on Windows Media Player, experiencing high quality gaming graphics and interacting with a Touch Screen are all cool Windows 7 features that have been marketed by Microsoft.  However, these digital media features may require additional hardware and a computer with higher performance standards.  If you are interested in these features, then it would be wise to research their additional requirements before buying.

How well will Windows 7 perform on your computer? If your Windows Experience Index rating is less than 3, then the graphics and Aero features of Windows 7 will not work.  In addition, you may have less performance if you have a 32-bit processor rather than a 64-bit processor.  To see how well Windows 7 will perform on your computer, you can download and run the Windows Upgrade Advisor.  It will assess your system and offer any possible trouble-shooting advice.

To find out more, visit our Windows 7 Topic Page.

11 Comments »

  • bige1 said:

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  • elizabethpinion said:

    I agree!
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    One question.
    How do i change my password?

  • ocls said:

    Hello, I downloaded a Windows 7 “advisor”, from Microsoft, it scans your computer to see what you need in order to upgrade, and gives you a checklist.

    I teach computer technology, and I find myself referring back you your website often, Thanks for your wealth of info.

  • matt said:

    To change your password - press the CTRL+ALT+DELETE keys at the same time, then select “Change Password”. This works the same in most versions of Windows.

  • joeabu said:

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    precious time and consideration.

  • 14connorj14 said:

    For Me, I have a Dell Computer with Windows XP and runs so well. Not only that, almost all programs run on Windows XP. I would play it safe and stay with Windows XP.

  • adriantsie said:

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  • bobrau said:

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  • etool said:

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    Thanks.

  • mamiyana said:

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  • s_sharat said:

    I am a senior citizen and have started computer operations just two years back. It is common knowledge that what problems a new comer enconters while operating a computer without basic knowldge. One fine morning while surfing I came accross this GCFlearnfree link and I was so pleased with the basic knowledge being offered by GCF free for which I must thank you. Added to it now Windows 7 tutorials. Thanks for all the lessons. There is wealth of knowledge here. I am sure GCF would add more to the existing tutorials. Thanks again.

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