WINXP - WinXP to Win7 Migration

This is intended for those considering going from WinXP to Windows 7 (Win7).

First and foremost. Microsoft operator system release history should be taken into consideration. The initial release of their OS has always been buggy, and I'm talking about the official release not Beta or RC. Please consider NOT installing Win7 until AFTER Win7 SP1 appears in stores.

Here are some pages you should look at BEFORE buying or installing Win7:

1. Upgrading from Windows XP to Windows 7 (Step-by-Step Guide)
2. Clean install with Windows 7 Upgrade media
3. Windows 7 Forum

The introduction video in #1 is very informative. Ending with, WinXP to Win7 migration is NOT simple. For one thing, it requires reinstalling all your applications from scratch, so you need all the install CDs or downloads before you start. SEE UPDATE BELOW!

In my personal case, I will never be going to Win7 because of massive application and game reinstalls that would be required. AND I already know that many of my games are not Win7 compatible. Also, my WinXP system is very, very stable. I am one who does not just get the latest-and-"greatest" of anything, and from what I see in Win7 there is nothing there that I need (especially all that useless eye-candy).

UPDATE 4/8/2010

"Migration Kit for Windows 7" from O&O Software

Whether you're installing Windows 7 on your old computer, or are planning to buy a new one that already comes with Windows 7, you’ll quickly notice that something very important is missing: your personal data, settings, and programs that were available on your computer’s former operating system. You could, of course, transfer each of them one by one, and then reinstall them in a tedious process, but there is a much easier way: Migration Kit for Windows 7.

With just a few clicks, you’ll be able to transfer all your data and programs onto a new operating system or computer. This is not only easier and less time-consuming, it's also much more secure because as part of the Migration Kit for Windows 7, you’ll also be getting the multiple award-winning O&O DiskImage 4 Professional Edition. O&O DiskImage will create a complete image of your system prior to migration, so that your familiar IT environment will be available to you whenever you need it. Windows 7 is not included in the price.

I have not use this kit, but the ability to move programs as well as user settings is a VERY big deal. Note I use O&O DiskImage at home, It's outstanding software.

I have use the Win7 Easy Transfer in setting up a new Win7 DELL for a friend and found it works very well, with exceptions of course (like Win7 not having Outlook Express). The O&O Software's Migration Kit for Windows 7 would be practical in this case because the Win7 DELL included a software upgrade to Office 2007.