Upgraded Computer

[mikcara]

I am planning to upgrade my computer with a new motherboard,ram and cpu,I have a backup made of the present configuration with all my programs etc. on it.Do I just install the new drivers and "all will be well" and make a new backup,what pitfalls could there be? Help appreciated!

 

[Shadowjk]

One Major Pitfall could be Activation - Do you have an OEM Retail Product Key or a Standard Retail

Also if you are going to Upgrade the Motherboard I would Strongly suggest a clean Install and to Backup Your Files Through Windows Backup and Manually

Also you may want to use Windows Easy Transfer

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/11470-windows-easy-transfer-transfer-computers.html - Use the External Hard Disk Option if you follow this

You will need to reinstall your Programs again

 

[mikcara]

Thanks for the quick reply,I have a Standard Retail Key,but I should be ok because Win7 is already installed,shouldn't I? My existing hard drive is still there,I was just curious to know if all my programs will be preserved after the upgrades.Sorry if I'm misleading you I'm very bad at explaining exactly what I'm trying to do.Apologies

 

[Shadowjk]

Yes It should In Theory but sometimes a Motherboard Transfer doesn't go to plan

Try the Upgrade but please be aware that you may need to reinstall so have the install disk and a Backup Copy at hand

Josh

 

[seavixen32]

When you've installed everything click Start and type SLUI.exe 4 in the search field and press Enter to bring up the Windows Activation Wizard.

Choose your location from the drop-down box and click Next then call the free telephone number listed so that you can follow the fully-automated instructions to:

1. Enter your Installation ID.
2. Confirm how many computers you've installed Windows on (One is the answer to give).
3. Receive confirmation that your Installation ID has been accepted.
4. Write down the Activation ID that will be given to you and keep it in case you re-install at a later date.
5. Enter the Activation ID and click Next.
6. Wait for confirmation on-screen that Windows is activated.

Should activation fail or your installation ID not be accepted, you'll be put through to a Microsoft representative. Just explain you've rebuilt your computer and you'll be given a new activation ID.

 

[karlsnooks]

mikcara,

After assembling the new system,
connect your old drive. Do NOT connect any other hard drives.

Boot up the system. You may need a couple of boots but all will be ok. After system booting successfully, use SeaVixen's advice IF you are prompted to activate or get some other dire Microsoft warning.

don't worry about installing drivers.

Just go to update and keep running update until all drivers are up-to-date.

If you have any problems, let us know. Win 7 is more flexible in this regard than earlier versions.