How to install windows 7 on computer having windows xp ?

First of all run the W 7 adviser to see if you can run it on your set up.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-GB/windows/downloa...

Then you can either upgrade or buy the full version

http://www.microsoft.com/uk/windows/buy/default.as...

Colinc is correct in the assessment apart from the Vista needing to be a registered copy, as you are allowed to "trial Vista" for 30 days, there is no need to enter a key as long as you complete the upgrade all the way to Windows 7 within the thirty days.

Now if you don't need or want the programs you have with XP you can install Win7 directly into your C drive, doing a clean install you will not destroy your documents nor your photos.

As long as you don't format the drive and follow normal procedure all your files will end up in a folder called "windows old" and can be pulled out with no major problems but programs will not run.

Do make sure that your machine is up to requirements by running the Windows 7 can I run it tool.

I have a full synopsis of all the differences between the systems on my sites

Start with this one http://www.computershell.info/

You will need to read and understand the link provided below first:

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/help/u...

It has to be a clean install rather than an upgrade apparently.

However there may be devious means of getting around this as suggested elsewhere if you are willing to try them!

Regards, Bert.

No direct upgrade path. You need to make an external copy of anything you want to keep, and collect install files for all your software. Then you can install W7 as a new install, your files should be retained in a oldwindows folder, but don't cpunt on it. When you have W7 working restore your bits and pieces.

You will need to use a legal upgrade copy of Vista to upgrade first. Once this activates you then need a legal copy of 7 to upgrade from vista. There is no direct upgrade. Microsoft being mean again. Directly installing 7 loses all your files as it has to be a clean install.

Format and install Windows7.

you have to install windows xp 7 times