Should I install Win7 over XP or reformat and do a clean install?


  1. Posts : 1
    Windows XP 32 bit
       #1

    Should I install Win7 over XP or reformat and do a clean install?


    Hi. XP dies in April so I need to upgrade my desktop. I'm going Win 7. I have used the machine heavily for 2 - 3 years (Outlook, Ms Office, video editing, sound editing, web support etc) so registry etc. will be messy. It still runs reliably and quickly enough although I have funnies with USB ports going AWOL from time to time.
    My question is: Am I better to have a clean start by formatting the system drive and installing Win7 from scratch, or would it be fine to install Win 7 over XP? It seems that the last option would be much easier in terms of not having to re-install everything and not losing Favourites, cookies etc. However, it may just add to the whatever messiness XP leaves behind.
    Are there ways to clean up the machine before doing option 2?
    Max
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 13,576
    Windows 10 Pro x64
       #2

    You most definitely want to format and clean install.

    Backup your favorites and all your data first. Get your network drivers on a flash drive or something before you start so you can install them and get out to internet from windows 7.

    You will have to re install all your programs.

    Maybe you should just buy another hard drive, install it, then install Windows 7 on that :) Strongly consider a Solid State Drive.

    http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/w...ows-7#T1=tab01

    Clean Install Windows 7

    And XP doesn`t die, it just won`t be supported by Microsoft anymore, and that`s no reason not to keep using an Operating System you like
      My Computer


  3. whs
    Posts : 26,210
    Vista, Windows7, Mint Mate, Zorin, Windows 8
       #3

    Don't upgrade. A clean install is the only way to go. The favorites and your data you need to save beforehand.

    Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version
      My Computer


 

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