How to Upgrade to Vista from Windows XP

Whenever new software makes an appearance on the market, there is a rush to get computers up to date. Such is the case with the new Windows Vista. If you want to upgrade from the now-outdated Windows XP to Vista, follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Computer

1. Know your options. Several versions of XP require a clean install. What that means is that you'll have to remove all the files from your computer, install the new operating system and start over. You can also upgrade to Vista without removing files. Visit the "Make the Move to Windows Vista" page on Microsoft.com (see Resources below).

2. Use the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor. This program will thoroughly evaluate your computer and tell you what version to get. You can download it easily (see Resources below). Just download it and run the program. When it's finished, you can move on to the next step.

3. Choose a version. To do this, you'll need to visit Microsoft.com. You need to use the information you got from the Vista Upgrade Advisor. You will also need to decide what version you want for yourself. You have some choices: Ultimate, Home Premium, Home Basic, Business and Enterprise. You will need to read up for yourself on the Microsoft Web site to see which version best fits your needs.

4. Pay up. Now that you have decided on an edition, you need to buy it. You can either get it shipped to your house or just buy and download. Once you decide, click on the little shopping cart icon and follow the prompts to pay for the item.

5. Download the program. This will be the easiest part of the whole process. Just follow the prompts to download the program and it will tell you what to do. If you need more information, print out the download guide available with the product when you buy it.

Tips & Warnings

• It can be a little pricey to upgrade all the computers in your house to Vista. Check into the Windows Vista Family Discount. Click here for more information.
• Note that the Upgrade Advisor can also check to see if you have all the components needed for Vista. Not every computer can support it.
• Make sure that you only buy your upgrade through Microsoft. Their website is called "Windows Marketplace." Anywhere else can be a ripoff. It's possible to buy what you think is a legitimate copy and then realize it's an illegal copy.