Upgrading from XP

Does anyone know if you can upgrade from XP to Windows 7? I've heard a lot about Vista but nothing about XP. I've tried to navigate the Microsoft website, but it is not exactly user friendly to me. Also, does upgrading keep all your existing files, or does it dump everything and start all over? AND does it keep the existing OS and write a new one or does it replace the old one? My sister, bless her soul, tried to upgrade my computer once and did it incorrectly. She upgraded 95 to XP and instead of replacing the existing OS, she loaded XP on top of it. It was a total mess. I do not want that to happen again. If anyone has any answers, I would greatly appreciate it!

Thanks,

Capri

P.S. How many computers can you upgrade with the disc? I have three computers: one for work, a laptop for school, and one for the family. Will it upgrade all of them, or will I need to purchase separate software for that?

Wow, that stinks, but thanks for the information! I appreciate it! My work and school laptops both have Vista, so I know they won't be problems. I was just worried about the family computer which has XP. I guess I will just keep that one. I think I will let my work worry about buying the software for that computer then. Thanks for the information. You've helped me immensely!

Capri

You could upgrade from XP to Vista then to Win7

Hi Capri,

Yep, clean install only! Also, since you are running XP, I recommend running the Upgrade Advisor before proceeding. It will scan your computer and tell you what changes should be made (if any) before upgrading. Basically, it just makes sure your PC is ready to run Windows 7 to ensure a good installation experience. :)

Cheers,
Cassandra
Microsoft Windows Outreach

gadianton said:

Wow, that stinks, but thanks for the information! I appreciate it! My work and school laptops both have Vista, so I know they won't be problems. I was just worried about the family computer which has XP. I guess I will just keep that one. I think I will let my work worry about buying the software for that computer then. Thanks for the information. You've helped me immensely!

Capri

XP Pro with Service Pack 3, is, in my opinion, the best operating system which Microsoft ever made. Not only would it be a waste of time and effort to "upgrade", it would be a bad idea. Why? Because the hardware for XP was considerably less advanced than the hardware made for Vista + 7. Vista + 7 require much more memory and Ram to run properly than XP does, because they're considerably larger programs. Therefore, a machine which is made for XP will undoubtedly run slow with Vista or 7 on it.

And, yes, you would lose all your data if you tried to "upgrade", but that's what data/backup disks are for. Either burn your data to a disc or get a flashdrive. I bought a 16 GB flashdrive (which is about the size of a pack of gum) for about $40. at Staples last year. It's very convenient.