Clean install question

dodoburd · 08 Nov 2009

Hey guys, I have another install question.

My computer is store-bought, so it had a lot of bloatware (which I promptly removed), but it's still very slow on boot and when more than 3 programs are running. What I was contemplating is getting the upgrade version of Windows 7, since I have a valid OEM Vista license, and formatting my drive to do a clean install. Is that legal and/or safe?

I would back up all my data, obviously, but I just want to know if the Win7 DVD will boot if there is no OS at all on my system.

richc46 · 08 Nov 2009

Yes, when you are asked for your product key, do not give it. When you are done, test the OS, install all your programs then use the OS some more. When you are satisfied, make an image, then authenticate. If for some reason this does not work (but it should), come back and ask there are two other methods to install on a clean disk, but you will not have a problem
You need a W7 license, however, to be able to activate.

ilesal · 08 Nov 2009

If you set your computer to boot from the disc, do this by entering into the bios screen and changing the boot order, then you can boot from the disc even without an OS on the computer, even if you had an OS on there the option to format the hard drive it's stored on will be giving during the new OS setup.
Looking at your current system spec it looks good so you should not have a slow boot up. I suggest checking how many programmes you have trying to start up when windows starts and stopping some of them.

Dave76 · 08 Nov 2009

Welcome to Seven Forums.

You can get the Win7 upgrade version since you have the Vista OEM. It is legal and safe.

There's no need to format your HD before you do the install. You can do it during the install.

Have a look at this Seven Forums tutorial, Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version, using option one is the best choice. Option two will work also.

You can leave Vista installed, when you get to step 7&8 of Clean Installation with Windows 7, choose Drive options (advanced) and you can format the Vista partition. Then continue with the installation.

This way Win7 will see the previous installation and your Activation should be without incident.
There has been reports of successful installations formatting the partition first and then booting the install disk and getting it activated, and some people have found that it didn't work. There are steps you can do to get it activated but, the format during installation method will give you the same result and easier activation.

Run the Microsoft Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor first to find out if there will be any system, program, or devices issues before you start the installation.

To help make the re-installation of your programs easier use Windows Easy Transfer - Transfer To & From Computers, you will still need to install the programs. After they are installed run the WET to computer. This will transfer your personal files and user settings from Vista. Backup your browser bookmarks as they will not be transferred.