Windows 7

What to consider before you upgrade

Once you have run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor and reviewed your system's Windows Experience Index, you will have a better idea of how Windows 7 will perform on your computer. Just to be sure, here are a few things to consider:

• Do you have a 32-bit or 64-bit processor? The 64-bit processor can handle larger amounts of information and increase the responsiveness of the computer. Windows 7 can run on 32-bit and 64-bit computers, but some features may not perform as well on 32-bit computers.
• Will you be upgrading from XP or Vista? Windows 7 was designed to be upgraded from Vista. If you are currently using the XP operating system, your upgrade experience may be complicated. You will have to back up your current files, programs, and settings and do a custom (clean) installation. Microsoft has subtly suggested that XP users should consider getting a new PC for Windows 7. If this is not an option and you are going to do a custom (clean) installation, you may want to get help from a computer service professional.
• Are you interested in gaming, multimedia, and Windows Touch? With Windows 7, Microsoft improved graphics capabilities for gaming and the multimedia features of Windows Media Player. Additionally, Windows 7 has touch-screen capability. If these digital media features are important to you, make sure to review the Additional System Requirements before upgrading.
  
  Using Windows 7 on a touch screen
• Do you currently use Windows Mail or Outlook Express? Windows Mail and Outlook Express are not available on Windows 7. You will need to replace them with Windows Live Mail or another email program.