Windows 7: Window 7 installation

Hi
I wonder if some one can help me. I have Windows Vista home premium 32 bit operating system. It is giving me trouble, i.e. slow and freezes frequently. I wanted to upgrade to Window 7.
Can I simply get Window 7 upgrade or do I have to reinstall the windows 7 completely. Basically I do not want to loose passwords and other programmes which have been installed on my computer like windows office, router and also other files saved on it.
Many Thanks

Hello Shikoh and welcome to Seven Forums.

Take a look through this tutorial. Please post back if you have any other questions.

Upgrade Install with Windows 7

Thanks for your prompt reply. Just two very simple questions: (1) is it safe just to upgrade from windows Vista to Windows 7 so that I do not loose any files or (2) Should I go for complete installation of Window 7. I am sure by now you must have realised that my knowledege in computers is not very good.
Thanks again.

Since you need to back up your files externally anyway, and a clean install is superior to in-place Upgrade, I would consider doing a Clean Install Windows 7

But you can try the in-place Upgrade first to see how it performs for you, although you should back up your files to be safest. Use an external or another internal HD (unplugged during upgrade), DVD's, flash stick, or up to 7gb free storage with each Windows Live ID using Skydrive.

Thank you for your help