Windows 7: Re-install XP Before Upgrading to Windows 7?

Is this article at Cnet correct? I built a new system and installed Windows 7 (Build 7100) from the get go. When I get the upgrade package I just bought I'll have to install XP first? I can do that but what a pain. Didn't they used to just ask for the old disc to prove ownership? You'd insert it, remove it and carry on. I don't want to completely install XP just to prove I owned it and then install Windows 7 over it.

Not too happy about this.



Tom

u've already answered urself, just show windows 7 setup ur xp disc and ur good to go. there's also the install 7 twice method.

Right but the article says XP must be installed, not shown, prior to installing the 7 update.

I'm not familiar with the install twice method. What's that?

Thanks,

Tom

I've just read that July 6 article myself, and it is very clear that XP *must* be installed prior to the Windows 7 upgrade. I remember reading on this board several weeks ago that it wouldn't be necessary to do that, but that info was either incorrect or MS has made a change. Crap.

Instead of worrying about installing XP go ahead and install XP then install Win 7 in a dual boot configuration. That way you will have both, and if you have any programs that have a problem with Win 7 and not XP then you will the wonderful world of both OSs.

But, remember XP has to be installed first (always).

By doing it this way you can get by with HP ($49.95 Upgrade) and not have pay $99.95 for the upgrade Pro version which would allow you to use MS VM with Virtual XP. Just trying to help you save money since you already have a copy of XP.

Here's a tutorial using Vista - Same should apply to the Windows 7 upgrade disks - Clean Install From Upgrade Vista - Vista Forums

Thanks Scott. This sounds like the way to go to avoid the XP re-install.

Tom