A detailed tutorial on this process will be linked in the next part of this lesson. Microsoft recommends using Windows Easy Transfer to back up and transfer your files and settings. For programs that were downloaded from the Internet, you may be able to download them again if not, you'll need to back them up before upgrading. You will also need to gather your installation discs to reinstall any programs. If you are doing a custom (clean) installation, you will need to back up and transfer your files and settings. This can be done by copying your files to an external source such as a CD, DVD, external drive, or USB flash drive. Backing up and transferring your filesīefore installation, it's a good idea to back up your files, even if you are only doing a simple upgrade.

If you are currently using these programs, you will need to import your data into Windows Live Mail or another email program after installation. Windows Mail and Outlook Express are not available on Windows 7. Once the installation is complete, you can turn the programs back on or install new antivirus software that is compatible with Windows 7. After updating, you should run the antivirus programs and then turn them off. Microsoft also recommends that you update your antivirus programs. In addition, you will need to make sure you have a working Internet connection upon installation, since you may be prompted to download and install security and hardware driver updates.

Decided upon the Windows 7 version you need.Figured out important Upgrade Considerations, like whether you have to perform a simple Vista upgrade or a custom (clean) installation.

Determined if your computer has a 32-bit or 64-bit processor.

Downloaded and run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor to assess you computer's upgrade needs.

In Lesson 2, we discussed the considerations you needed to be aware of before upgrading to Windows 7. There are a few things you need to check before you get started with your installation. In this lesson, you will review pre-installation preparation and learn how to install Windows 7, along with any accompanying devices and hardware. Either way, we're now going to look at the installation process. You may still be exploring Windows 7, or you may have already purchased the operating system.

en/windows7/upgrading-to-windows-7/content/ Introduction

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