If I upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7, can I choose to erase everything and start over?

June 22nd, 2010

windows 7
Owlfeather asked:


Recently I obtained a Windows 7 disk and I want to update my hard drive. Can I choose to wipe EVERYTHING from my old Windows XP and start all over? How can I?

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6 Responses to “If I upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7, can I choose to erase everything and start over?”

  1. Darshan D Says:
    June 24th, 2010 at 5:07 am

    You don’t have a choice, once you start installing Windows 7, EVERYTHING will be deleted. There’s no going back. :)

  2. 65MPH-HA Says:
    June 24th, 2010 at 7:37 am

    Good question , i want to keep only my book marks !…sorry to horn in on your question :)

  3. Andrew P Says:
    June 25th, 2010 at 12:15 am

    yes and no if you want to have all your files do a backup and there is a problem with windows 7 if you do a update sometimes it will sat not genuine that can be fixed the problem is wat22 windows activation Technologies here is a link download and follow those instructions. not made by me all credits to maker

  4. zakaluka Says:
    June 27th, 2010 at 12:40 pm

    It’s called a double upgrade. You can read about it at . It’s a slightly time consuming process, but is completely legal (as certified by microsoft at=-6787 ).

    This technique is much safer than trying to get past Windows’ activation system (or using a hack) and will not cause problems in the future when trying to install patches and updates.

    Regards.

  5. Enrique Says:
    June 30th, 2010 at 12:32 pm

    To upgrade your PC from Windows XP to Windows 7, you’ll need to select the Custom option during Windows 7 installation. A custom installation doesn’t preserve your programs, files, or settings. It’s sometimes called a “clean” installation for that reason.
    A custom installation is more complex, and it can sometimes take a couple of hours to complete. We created this five-step tutorial to help guide you through the entire process each step of the way.
    What you need

    •An external hard disk. You’ll need to move your files off of your PC before you install Windows 7. To make this easier, we recommend a free download called Windows Easy Transfer, which will require an external hard disk. They’re readily available at electronics and office supply stores, and they provide an easy way to add additional storage space to your computer.

    •The original installation discs or setup files for the programs that you want to use with Windows 7. You’ll need to reinstall your programs by hand after installing Windows 7. When you run Windows Easy Transfer you will get a report that lists the programs that you are currently using with Windows XP.

  6. Cassandra Says:
    July 1st, 2010 at 9:13 am

    Hi There,

    I agree with Enrique’s answer. You will need to do a custom (also known as a clean) installation meaning that everything will be erased from your computer. If you want to save anything, make sure you back up to an eternal hard drive.

    Before upgrading, run the Windows Upgrade Advisor. It will scan your computer and tell you if you need to make any changes before beginning the installation -

    Here is a great tutorial to print and refer back to doing the installation process -

    Hope you enjoy Windows 7!

    Cheers,
    Cassandra
    Microsoft Windows Outreach

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