Windows 7 Logo
(Original source from NST: http://neosmart.net/gallery/v/os/Win7/Windows+7+Logo.png.html)
Just received the upgrade toolkit from one of the wellknown notebook vendor for migrating to the new OS (Operating System): Windows 7 last Saturday after the official launching about a month ago. This reminds me the days when I was amazed by the previous OS, Windows XP which seems like a triumph of Microsoft great achievement. This makes me thinking since I'm now more IT literate, it is a good time to actually give back as during the times when my friends helped me in my learning curves. I'll try to use simple human language to make things simpler. Here goes:
1. What is Windows 7?
Good question (need to praise you a bit to keep you excited). To be simple, Windows 7 is the latest OS product from the world well known software creater, Microsoft after the non-so preferable version, Vista which tend to fully replace Windows XP but doesn't work out as planned. According to Microsoft, there are lots of enhancements and improvements compared with Vista & XP thus some might find Windows 7 is something similar to XP in the backend (method of handling process which seems faster) and look-a-like Vista (very similar to Vista's AERO theme). For more info, go to
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_7
2. OK. What should I do to get Windows 7 in my PC or notebook?
There are several ways to obtain Windows 7. The easiest way is to get a new set of PC / notebook from authorized branded IT distributors such as HP, DELL, ACER, TOSHIBA, SONY, FUJITSU etc. NOW :) (I'm not doing commercial anyway). If you've purchased the new set with genuine (means original) Vista installed just after JULY 2009, then you may go and check out if your purchase qualified to obtain the upgrade kit (like my case here).
If you do have genuine Vista or XP installed in the new machine bought before July 2009, then you still eligible to purchase the upgrade kit from authorized software reseller. Do check out further details with them as always since this approach is still quite fresh at the moment. From what I noticed for Vista case, you need to get the right product key (a code of 25 characters + digits which shown on the proof sticker) which match your Vista version, for example you need to get Windows 7 Home Premium if you want to upgrade Vista Home Premium. For XP users, the information I have is that the upgrade is confirm suitable for XP Professional and I am not sure if it also work for XP Home or not.
If you have an older machine and considering to run Windows 7, you can do a self assessment check using Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor which is a tool provided by Microsoft and you can download it for free via link below:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/get/upgrade-advisor.aspx
Basically if your machine can support Vista, it shouldn't be a problem for the new comer.
3. Any important issues I need to be caution?
Yes. Similar to XP and Vista, there are 32-bit and 64-bit Windows 7 which meant for respective processor type. From what I understand, Windows 7 32-bit can support 4GB RAM thus you have no worry RAM investment limitation which happen in XP repeat in Windows 7. You need to confirm your processor type if you intend to install 64-bit Windows 7. For your information, most of the program / application in the market are suitable to run in 32-bit OS but 64-bit OS have faster processing speed advantage thus for general user, I'll advice to go for 32-bit version.
Another thing need to be aware is how to perform the installation. The case is plain simple for new PC / notebook set with no OS installed at all and the hardware specification is good enough (advice at least 2GB Duo Core Processor Speed, 2GB RAM and 160GB Hard disc space) where you can get a Windows 7 full installation DVD to perform a custom installation. This method requires IT knowledge and quite time consuming thus best to get reliable IT shop to do it for you if you don't know how.
Similar case happen to current XP users: You can only perform full installation where you will be force to erase all existing data and setting. Best practice is to do necessary data backup before proceed.
Good news for general Vista users where Microsoft claimed to make it possible to upgrade from Vista to Windows 7 with all data, application and setting fully migrate. As mentioned earlier, this only apply to matching version. However I still advice users to backup important data at least in case any thing goes wrong.
For more detail, go to the links below:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/Installing-Windows-recommended-links
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/Installing-and-reinstalling-Windows-7
4. Is this entire upgrading process bullet proof (no error)?
Another very good question. To tell you frankly, I'm not sure if it will be as simple as ABC. It seems there are post on the internet stating chances if the process might experience difficulties. Fortunately counter steps are also provided so if you are attempting to do the upgrade process on your own, hope the link below helps when you crying for mama:
http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/183382/fix_the_most_common_windows_7_upgrade_problems.html
Generally, I do give positive respond to Windows 7 release compared to Vista based on the feedback from test users since the BETA (non official release which meant for testing) version which will be expired during next year. I guess I'll be using it soon so will update you all later, OK? Till then, back to work.
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