Getting ready for Windows 7, how to do it?

[Hondajt]

I have Vista Ultimate x64, it came with the free Windows 7 upgrade code. I am assuming that tomm, I can get on Windows site and download the Windows 7 upgrade?

Where do I put it? On the computer getting upgraded? On a flash drive? (I have a 32Gb flash drive if thats enough?) On a diff computer then burn to Dvd?

I'm confused. I want to have a full copy of the Upgrade incase something goes wrong, and I ever need to do it over.

 

[Dave76]

I have Vista Ultimate x64, it came with the free Windows 7 upgrade code. I am assuming that tomm, I can get on Windows site and download the Windows 7 upgrade?

Where do I put it? On the computer getting upgraded? On a flash drive? (I have a 32Gb flash drive if thats enough?) On a diff computer then burn to Dvd?

I'm confused. I want to have a full copy of the Upgrade incase something goes wrong, and I ever need to do it over.

Welcome to Seven Forums.

It's best to put the download ISO file in a separate partition, not on your OS partition, then you won't loose it when you upgrade.
We've seen a lot of problems putting the ISO on a DVD.

Best results will be if you put it on a USB key, Min size 4GB.
This tutorial will help you do it: USB Windows 7 Installation Key Drive - Create

Then the install: Upgrade Install with Windows 7

In this tutorial on step #8, it's recommended to do a Custom install. This will give you a better result.

You can save your user settings from Vista and add them to the new Win7 with Windows Easy Transfer.
Windows Easy Transfer - Transfer To & From Computers

You will still need to install all your programs on Win7 before you run Windows Easy Transfer.
It will transfer all your user settings. Back up you browsers bookmarks before the installation, these won't get transfered.

Before you start the Upgrade Install, backup your Vista installation. If there're any problems you can restore it.

When you get all the programs loaded and Win7 is running smoothly, activate it. You will have 30 days to do this.

Check this tutorial reference list: Tutorial quick reference list for Installing Windows 7

Just reply here if you have any questions.

 

[Hondajt]

So, do I download this off Microsoft's Website? How do I get the file? Do I have to pay for Shipping and handling and get a physical version?