Windows Vista sucked and was not worth the upgrade. However, Windows 7 is definitely better and has received many positive reviews. However, moving from Windows Xp to Windows 7 is no easy as you have to perform a clean installation of the operating system. There are several issues that you need to know to handle.
First and foremost, your hardware may not support Windows 7. If your hardware is older, you may have to consider upgrading it. You will need at least 1 GB of RAM to use Windows 7 and most latest software. You may also have driver issues as some hardware drivers may not function properly in Windows 7.
If you are thinking of upgrading to Windows 7, start by running the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor first. For Windows Xp users this step is an absolute must and should.
You may also need to upgrade the firmware of your motherboard i.e. the BIOS. Check the website of your motherboard’s manufacturer for any updates. However, do not proceed with the upgrade unless it is an absolute must. If you are not so comfortable with computers, take the help of someone proficient.
To ease the transition, Microsoft will be launching the Windows 7 Compatibility Center. However, it has not been launched as of yet. Microsoft has launched the Vista version of the Compatibility Center and this may be helpful to some extent. Some Vista drivers may work in Windows Xp, however many don’t work.
Software developed for Windows Xp may not work properly in Windows 7. The Compatibility Centers will come handy by providing information on which software works and which doesn’t. Information may also be available on workarounds and patches for software to make them work.
Microsoft has launched a utility called Windows Xp Mode which allows software developed for Windows Xp to be run on Windows 7 without any issues. This mode runs software in a virtual machine inside Windows 7 with an integrated interface. Windows Xp and 7 application can run side by side on the same desktop.
Windows Xp Mode required higher system requirements and also a processor capable of visualization. Microsoft.com has information on how to find out if your processor has the feature. Windows Xp Mode won’t ship with Windows 7 and has to be downloaded from Microsoft.com. Some OEMs may also include it on their computer.
Windows Xp and Windows 7 is many respects. For example, the folder C:\Documents and Settings in Windows Xp is C:\Users in Windows 7. Application Data is now AppData while Local Settings\Application Data is now AppData\Local. Additionally, Music, Pictures and Videos are in the same directory as My Documents rather than inside it.
During Windows 7 installation, all your files will be moved to C:\Windows.old. This will enable you to upgrade to Windows 7 and migrate all your files and folders without much of an issue. However, some glitches may still be inevitable.