How best to install Windows 7?

[Ghost1980]

Hi All,

I have heard only good things about Windows 7 and I am very keen to install a copy.

Before I do, I was hoping someone could help advise on the best way to install it.

I currently am running Windows Vista but do not have the Vista installation CD's - If i install Windows 7 (as an upgrade) am I able to go back to Vista at any time without the need for the Vista install CD?

The alternative is to have both OS installed on my computer but If I do this will I need to install all my apps on Windows 7 and will I be able to get access to all my documents, pictures etc?

I havd a look through the forum and couldn't find anything on this......Can anyone help?

Thanks,

Ghost1980

[face]

do a dual boot. You wont be able to get back to vista without the disc. You can tell windows 7 to put your documents and things in its libaries so you find them. For programs some will work by just linking to the shortcut others will need to be reinstalled but if you reinstall to the same location then in most cases you will be able to use it from both os's and will not use up much more space.

[danthescan]

If you go the upgrade route there is no way back.
If this is your main PC and you have no backup then stay well clear.

Dual boot is an option, but as your name suggests Ghost/image your original setup now as you dont have a Vista install disk anyway.

Only when you have a full restore solution do you want to go Playing with this.

[DejaVu]

Get rid of Vista. It's crap. Windows 7 all the way.

If your computer runs OK with Vista, it'll be better with Windows 7.
There are always ways to go back to Vista in the future, but why would you want to?! Google is your friend!!

Just make sure you back everything up, make a list of the programs you use. Reinstall and reap the benefits of a better OS, even if it is just a Beta.

Windows 7 Beta is effectively Vista SP2, but with a change of scenery!

[Raptor]

Don't use a beta for your main OS. End of story.

[DejaVu]

Don't use a beta for your main OS. End of story.

Agreed to a certain degree. But I use only external drives for anything important and if something really does go pear shaped, I can easily reinstall anyways.

[Raptor]

I was advising the OP.

if you have to ask those questions then simply dont use a beta as a main OS.

[danthescan]

Im amazed at the people who seem to think this is their main OS and someone will issue a timer crack or something for it.When it goes retail is the time to be hacking it,not the beta as its going to have changes made to it by MS.

Treat this as a toy and a look into the Future.