14 DAY TRIAL // Windows 7 has managed to change the trend for upgrading to a new Windows client. According to a survey performed by Forrester Research, 43% of 450 US online computer users revealed that they had upgraded to Windows 7 while keeping their old PC. In this context, the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor is an invaluable tool for customers. Offered free of charge via the Microsoft Download Center, the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor enables users to easily assess their existing computers and see whether they can run the latest iteration of the Windows client.
“The Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor scans your PC for potential compatibility issues and lets you know about your Windows 7 upgrade options. Within minutes, you'll get a report that tells you if your PC meets the system requirements, if any known compatibility issues with your hardware, devices, and installed programs are found, and gives guidance on what to do to before installing Windows 7 on your PC,” the company noted.
At the end of March 2010, a new release of the tool went live and is currently up for grabs from Microsoft. Buying a new PC preinstalled with Windows 7 comes with the guarantee that the OEM has made sure that the OS is a perfect fit for the machine. When it comes down to upgrading older PCs, the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor will help end users fend for themselves with little help from a professional.
The Advisor runs on both Windows Vista and Windows XP, but will also evaluate PCs running Windows 7 editions to see whether users can upgrade to a better SKU of the OS.
“Before you begin, be sure to plug in and turn on any USB devices or other devices, such as printers, external hard disks, and scanners, that you regularly use with the PC you're checking,” Microsoft advised.
Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor is available for download here.