The most frequently asked questions I have heard recently concern Windows 7. The questions range from “should I upgrade” to “is it worth it”. My answer always is if your machine is compatible and you are running Vista, then by all means upgrade. It is faster, more secure and easier to use.
The caveat is, of course, “is your machine compatible”. To answer that you can download the windows upgrade advisor. That is located here:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/get/upgrade-advisor.aspx .
But it is not just your machine you have to consider. There are also your peripherals and your applications. Will Windows 7 work with your printer or your smart phone? Will you have to purchase a newer version of your favorite software? Here is a Microsoft site that can give you a clue:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/compatibility/en-us/default.aspx
While Windows 7 makes it easier than ever before to upgrade, upgrading an OS always brings with it some hidden consequences. So, if your machine is running XP and you are happy with its performance, then do not go to the expense of an upgrade. Wait until you are ready to purchase a new machine. Buy it with Windows 7.
But if you do decide to upgrade, remember to make a backup first!
Here are a few of the major manufacturers’ web pages devoted to upgrading.
Dell:
http://content.dell.com/us/en/bsd/d/operating-systems/windows7_smb_faq.aspx
Gateway:
http://www.gateway.com/windows7upgrade/
HP:
http://www.hp.com/country/us/en/mda/windows7/upgrade/tools.html
Lenovo:
http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site.wss/WIN7-HOME.html
Sony:
http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/support-info.pl?info_id=519
Toshiba:
