[esparzatj]

Before installing on my 10v, I wanted to see how Win 7 (RTM) performed and what I may encounter, i.e. compatible programs, hardware, performance, etc. I installed it on my desktop, since my wife and I use our laptops for most of our work and personal use. I have been presently surprise and pleased with my experiences, so far. Win 7 performs better than Win XP Home and the look and ease of maneuvering around the OS is easier than expected. One thing I would caution with this installation is your hardware and resources working, after installation. Win 7 didn't like my modem or my HP Photosmart 2575 printer. HP has printer drivers for Vista, but cautioned that all features would not work properly and doesn't expect to provide Win 7 drivers in the near future. HP recommended purchasing a newer printer, as a solution! Most of my software I normally use was compatible, with the exception of Tuneup Utilities 2009. I'm hoping their next release, 2010 version, will be available for Win 7

[mjp808]

Well-good info. Thanks, fellas.

[holmes4]

You can't "upgrade" from XP to Win7 - this path forces a fresh install of Win7. Only Vista can be upgraded in place.

[zrtom]

holmes4 is correct.

I thought I might add that, although by no means is it an upgrade installation, there is a way to migrate data and settings from XP to W7 using either Windows Easy Transfer (fairly easy) or the User State Migration Tool (much more complicated).
This video shows an example of the USMT:

Windows XP Migration | Migrate User Profiles | Windows 7

[holmes4]

Right - you will still have to reinstall third-party software, and probably obtain new versions of some tools such as antivirus.