The new OS, Windows 7, is coming out by October 22nd, and many Windows users couldn't be happier. We are looking at what could be the best, most advanced and most secure OS ever created. It is said to solve all of the problems of Vista and have more performance than XP.
Now, after looking in several magazines, I have found some important information for those looking to upgrade when it comes out.
According to the sources, if you currently have Vista on your computer, you don't have to worry all that much. All you need to do is just install the disk and not need to back up at all. It'll be quick and simple.
However, if you have XP or earlier, you are looking at having to do the traditional reformatting of a computer. You will need to back up your documents and important files. However, unlike earlier ways of reformatting, this one will save most of the programs you have installed. (ie Firefox, Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Anti-Virus Programs, etc.) When you reformat your computer with the Windows 7 disk, it'll put your programs into a folder called "Windows old". All you have to do is move the programs from the New Folder that has been made and it'll automatically install them. Certain ones like Firefox, you will have to make the changes when you installed it again. (ie adding in Favorites, setting up Custom install, etc.)
Despite this though, several programs may not be saved. It is unclear which ones will be saved, even though certain ones have been confirmed. So it's a good idea to have the install.exe files and disks ready, just in case.
Other than that, you are looking at everything else being wiped if you don't back up your documents, music files, pictures and other things.
Also, another thing, those of you who have now found you will be reformatting, unlike the traditional reformatting, where you will insert the disk, restart, push a certain button on the keyboard and then go from there, you will have to do it from the OS screen where you would normally install most programs.
After backing up, (most likely with an external hard drive. Don't worry about what brand is used. ALL of the ones currently in the market have been tested and work for this one.) insert the disk and run it. After several screens of clicking on "next", it'll bring up a selection choice between "Upgrade" and "Custom". Those of you looking to do the reformat will want to do the Custom install. From there, continue clicking on next, following whatever on-screen instructions it gives you carefully, and continue like a traditional reformat. Note that it'll restart your computer eventually, so be ready with these instructions printed out.
Once it's done reformatting, just put back in all of the files you have backed-up, reinstall whatever you need to and...
Congratulations! You now have the new Windows 7 OS completely installed and ready to go. Enjoy it!
I hope you have found this information helpful and will use it to the best of your advantage.
Thank you for your time and best of luck! :^.^:
