Upgrading to Windows 7

Submitted by Luke Bergeron

 

Before upgrading to Windows 7 there is a sizable planning process. This can take some time, but (and this is especially true for businesses), it’s worthwhile to plan before you purchase.
 
First, it’s important to consider that some applications may not be compatible with Windows 7. If you plan on upgrading you should also research and plan to possibly invest in new applications. Be sure to check before you upgrade if your files, data, and applications are compatible with Windows 7.
 
You can run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor before you consider upgrading. This free tool, available from Microsoft, will allow you to test your machine and determine if it meets the system requirements for Windows 7. Not only that, the compatibility tool will also examine your software and let you know which are incompatible with Windows 7. The tool is not a surefire method – it is possible it will not catch everything, especially custom developed software, but it can be used as a rough and general guide to determine if your computer and applications can handle an upgrade to Windows 7.
 
Although Windows 7 is not a prohibitively expensive piece of software, if you need to replace hardware or other applications, costs could be higher than just the cost of Windows 7. Also, for business, there can be other costs: upgrade time, employee adjustment periods, and the possibility that you’ll need to find work arounds for new bugs. Keep these things in mind when budgeting for an upgrade.
 
Before you upgrade we recommend that you:
 
Consult with a trusted IT professional who knows your machine and knows what you use your machine for. Even if you decide to do the upgrade yourself, some expert advice is sure to help as you go through the process.
 
Make sure you weigh the advantages and risks before upgrading. If your machine is a few years old, it might be more cost effective to simply buy a new machine than invest in expensive software for an outdated machine.
 
The final thing to do before upgrading is to consider your plans for the future – is now the best time to upgrade? Would a year from now be better? Sometimes waiting another year may be a better option – make sure you weigh your options carefully. Make sure that you’re upgrading because there are specific features of the new operating system that you feel you need. Don’t just upgrade because you feel you should. If your current computer and operating system do everything you need to do, there’s no reason to upgrade (note: security is still a concern, especially coming from Windows XP – increased security, especially if you’re working in an industry with sensitive information, is a valid reason to upgrade).
 
Once you purchased the software, you’re ready to begin the upgrade process. Before you do this, make sure you’ve purchased the correct version. If you’re moving from Windows XP to Windows 7, a direct upgrade path is not available. First, you must backup your data and install a fresh copy of Windows 7. You can direct upgrade from Windows Vista without wiping all your applications and data, but it is still highly recommended that you first upgrade your data. Upgrading is a delicate process – it’s not difficult, but it’s very easy to make a mistake and lose all your data if you don’t read the instructions carefully and pay attention.
 
Keep in mind, installing a new operating system is only the beginning. Once you’ve put on a clean operating system, or upgraded your existing operating system, there is more work to be done. Applications and drivers must also be reinstalled.
 
Once you’ve upgraded there will be a learning curve, just as there is for any new software. This is especially true if you’re upgrading from Windows XP. Vista users will have less of a problem, but there are still significant differences between Windows Vista and Windows 7. Some features have been discontinued from earlier versions of Windows and there are many new features that add additional functionality. It’s best to postpone upgrading until you have the time to learn the new operating system. Don’t expect to be at peak productivity right after you install, especially if you’re very accustomed to earlier versions of Windows.
 
Once everything is installed and you’re up and running, regular check-ups, updates, and maintenance should also be performed. This is the most important step to make sure you get the most out of your hardware and software investment.

The bottom line: Consult with your IT Professional about your needs and plan well before you upgrade. Allocate enough time and resources to do it properly and learn the new operating system. Maintain your investment with regular check-ups. These things will ensure a quality upgrade experience.