Need Technical Input Migrating from XP to 7

[aashomlo]

Hello,

I purchased a new laptop with Windows 7 (64 bits). My old laptop is running Windows XP home edition. I need technical input with the following subjects:

1. to understand how to properly convert the contents on My Documents folder from Windows XP to Windows 7. I transferred My Documents (renamed to "Dell Docs") from my old computer (Windows XP) to the new one (Windows 7). Can I use all the files and folders in Dell Docs on Windows 7 or need to run them through a conversion process first? Which conversion program? At what point can I move them into my Window 7's My Documents folder?

2. My new HP computer came with a recovery partition on the hard drive. What's the purpose of this partition and when/how do I use it?

3. HP sent me a "System Recovery DVD Windows 7" discs and also a "Application and Driver Recovery CD" with my laptop. Should I create another system repair/recovery backup on my USB external hard drive as well? I read there are advantages and disadvantages for each type of external media.

4. How do I check my bio settings (Windows 7) to find the order of devices it looks for system files during bootup? What do you recommend I set it for?

5. Which Spyware / Malware programs do you recommend I use?

Thank you,
A.

 

[gregrocker]

Just drag the contents of your old XP folders into the corresponding Win7 folders using the Explorer tree on the left side of each source folder. Select all files, drag the group to the corresponding Win7 folder, hold the left click long enough to make sure the folder tree doesn't jump, then release.

The Recov partition has the same purpose as the recov disks they sent you. Instead of booting the disks, you can trigger the Recov partition using key combo given in manual, or from Windows. The driver/apps disk has what you need to clean install Win7 if you want to find a clean-copy install DVD and not use Recov disks.

But you never have to reinstall if you make a Win7 backup image saved externally; just boot the Repair CD, select Recover Using An Image, and reimage from the backup in 15 minutes.

Use the F-Key given for Enter BIOS to check the boot order is set to DVD drive first, then HD.

I recommend free Microsoft Security Essentials AV and keeping your Win7 Updates current for the firewall.

 

[richc46]

Re your Question 5. Microsoft Security Essentials, a firewall, and Malwarebytes. They are both free and will prevent most problems. No A/V or Malware can be 100% effective. The remaining ingridient is the care taken by the user.

Malwarebytes.org

Good luck