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Question

Switching my dell over to windows 7

Dec 12, 2012 3:32AM PST

Hi. I have a dell that came as an os multi boot (windows xp and vista). I chose to use xp and never used, or switched over to vista. It also came with os software (on a cd) for windows 7 and I'd like to switch over to that now and completely bypass vista.

Is this possible? Unfortunately, I'm not sure if I have the windows 7 upgrade or if it is the whole thing.

Not sure how to go about this. Any feedback would be great. Including the steps I have to take as far as saving files, not loosing Outlook Express emails, and not loosing other programs I have on the computer currently. I ask alot, I realize.

Discussion is locked

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Answer
For most it's not upgrade but clean install.
Dec 12, 2012 3:38AM PST

You didn't supply a model number so I can't tell if this has the needed Apps (Dell Quickset) or Drivers available.

-> Outlook Express does not exist in Windows 7. You have to make a choice NOW before it's lost. Look into THUNDERBIRD now. Not later and migrate to that first. Then backup that a few times (backup and restore discussions are on the web so I won't duplicate that here.)

Any file you don't backup (a few times) must be stuff you can lose. APPLICATIONS are sometimes trouble as some folk forget where the install CDs or files are.
Bob

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PS. My way. It's easier.
Dec 12, 2012 3:39AM PST

When I encounter such I install a new blank drive and install the new OS to that. This way we can go back if there is trouble. And we can fine tune the new install.
Bob