14 DAY TRIAL // Windows 7 is set to come out through Microsoft's gates as soon as October 22, and the Redmond-based company already fired up the machine to be prepared for the demand its client is expected to register from those users willing to upgrade to the new platform iteration as soon as it is available for purchase. There are some offers that students or families can benefit from, when they are upgrading from an earlier version of the OS, including Windows Vista or Windows XP, as well as a series of options aimed at businesses that plan on migrating to Windows 7.
For starters, we should mention the fact that those who plan on upgrading to Windows 7 will have to walk into a store to purchase the upcoming operating system, or head to the Microsoft Online Store to get their copy of the platform. The OS won't be available for purchase prior to October 22, yet users can already place pre-orders for it on the aforementioned Online Store. Eligible college students can get Windows 7 for only $29.99 by visiting http://www.win741.com/, while the Windows 7 Family Pack Offer, available for a limited time come October 22, provides 3 Upgrade Licenses for $149.99.
As for the upgrade process in itself, things are different when it comes to Windows Vista and Windows XP users. Vista can be easily upgraded to Windows 7, yet users should note that their current edition of Windows Vista will only move to a corresponding edition of Windows 7. Thus, one can move “from Windows Vista Home Premium to Windows 7 Home Premium or from a 32-bit version of Windows Vista to a 32-bit version of Windows 7. The process involves inserting the appropriate Windows 7 installation disc, running the setup program, and choosing the 'Upgrade' installation option,” a post on Windows 7 Team Blog states.
This upgrade will keep all files, programs and settings on the computer and seems to be the most comfortable of all. But it applies only to current Vista users, as Windows XP owners will have to perform a “Custom” installation process, which starts with checking whether the minimum system requirements are met. The Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor will let users know whether they can move to the new client or not, and, after getting a “green light” from it, they can start upgrading. It should be mentioned that no files, programs or settings are preserved, so one should back up all data before upgrading, and put it back in place after completing the process. Those who will upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7 on their own might consider taking a look at the step-by-step guide Microsoft provided for them here.