Points to consider while upgrading from Windows XP to Windows 7

Windows 7 comes with extensive feature set, faster speed, and eye-catch user interface. This OS really turns a computer into a precious user-friendly machine. If you’re going to upgrade from the Windows XP to 7 then there are few most important aspects to be aware of. In addition, the person has to take some precautions to save the data, programs, and settings during upgrade process. In this write up, we will discuss the important factors to consider while upgrading the Operating System from XP to 7.

1. It is not necessary that all the hardware & software working in Windows XP will be compatible with Windows 7. Create a list of necessary programs and peripherals. Now, browse the Windows 7 Compatibility Center to check whether they’re compatible with Windows 7 or not. Also check for their alternate versions, which are compatible with Windows 7.

2. Download the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor and install it. While running, it will scan all the hardware & software installed and provide you a brief report what all will work and don’t work with Windows 7. If you’re not so much technical to understand the aspects Windows 7 Compatibility Center or Upgrade Advisor then it is better to take help from Microsoft Software Support.

3. Download the Windows Easy Transfer and install it. This will help you to backup your files, emails, images, data, and settings to a safe place. Windows Easy Transfer will create a backup file containing all these things. We suggest you to store this file on a removable drive or optical disc.

4. Noteworthy to mention that Windows XP cannot be directly upgraded to Windows 7. You’ve to boot the computer with Windows 7 disc and select the ‘Upgrade’ option. If it doesn’t work then you’ve to perform a clean installation after formatting the system partition. Facing any problem in this upgrade process then take help of Windows 7 Tech Support.

5. Run the Windows Easy Transfer again to restore the previously backed up file on Windows XP.

6. Suppose you’re using the older version of an antivirus, may be McAfee Security Center and its subscription is active for next one year. However, it is not compatible with Windows 7. In such cases, you can contact the product vendor directly to get the Windows 7 compatible version.

7. Now, you’ve to find out the latest drivers for Windows 7 for your motherboard, graphic card, sound, and other peripherals. You can visit the Website of a hardware vendor to find out the same. If you’re not able to trace out the compatible drivers then give a try to third-party Microsoft software support.

Conclusion
One should consider the above points and follow them while upgrading from XP to 7. These will help to save your precious data even after changing the Operating System or formatting the system partition. If the hardware configuration doesn’t seem compatible in Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor, then consider to upgrade the hardware first before continuing with the Windows Upgrade process.

One has to take care of several things while upgrading from the Windows XP to Windows 7. Not only the system requirements are to be met but the installed applications should have compatibility with Windows 7. Thinking what all precautions need to be taken while this upgrade process, then read this article for more information.