How to tell if your PC can handle Windows 7

Microsoft’s upcoming operating system debuts next Thursday, Oct. 22, and while many will wait to try it when they buy a new PC, others will install the software on their existing PCs. Here’s what you need to know before you start.

A few handy tips before buying and installing Windows 7:

* If your current PC is running Windows Vista then it can also handle Windows 7, no problem.

* If you’re running Windows XP, you need to see if your existing hardware can handle Windows 7. Minimum specs for Windows 7 are: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor; 1 gigabyte (GB) RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit); 16 GB available hard disk space (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit); DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver. More information is here.

* If your computer can handle the upgrade, what about the software you use? The rule of thumb is as follows: If your third-party programs work in Windows Vista now, they’ll work in Windows 7. If you’re running Windows XP, you’ll likely need to download an update from the manufacturer’s website to a newer version, if it’s offered.

* Before buying Windows 7, download and install this free Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor tool and it will tell you which of your programs will work and which requires an upgrade.

* Windows 7 has an optional Windows XP “mode” you can run, if desired. See more information here.

* Should you buy the complete version or upgrade version of Windows 7? A Microsoft engineer tells me it makes no difference in performance whether or not you buy the upgrade or format the computer’s hard drive and install a complete edition. In the past, a complete install was always recommended over an upgrade.

* Check out our article, 7 Things you didn’t know about Windows 7. Run a business? Read our Windows 7: For Business or Bust?

* Windows 7 costs between $130 to $350, depending which version is purchased: home premium, professional and ultimate editions, and whether it’s an upgrade or full version.

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