Upgrade and Migration
Microsoft® provides tools and documentation that can assist in migrating user data and application settings from a previous installation of Windows to Windows® 7. There are different types of upgrade and migration scenarios, from performing an in-place upgrade on an existing computer to moving data to a new computer. The following sections provide an overview of the migration scenarios and best practices to consider when you are migrating to Windows 7.
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This document outlines supported and unsupported upgrade paths for editions of the Windows® 7 operating system.
User State Migration Tool 4.0 User's Guide
This set of documentation provides information about Microsoft® Windows® User State Migration Tool (USMT) 4.0 including command line syntax, best practices, and troubleshooting.
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This collection of documents includes a guide for determining which tools you need for your upgrade and migration scenario and step-by-step guides for using USMT 4.0 for a basic migration, an offline migration, and migration with Windows Deployment Services. It also includes information about customizing XML files for use with USMT 4.0.
Windows XP to Windows 7 Hard-Link Migration of User Files and Settings
This guide explains your options for moving files and settings from operating systems that are not supported for in-place upgrade and it explains your options for performing a clean installation of Windows 7 on existing hardware with Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7 already installed while retaining and migrating files and settings that are on the computer. This document is intended for IT professionals with limited deployment infrastructure or automation expertise who are primarily installing from retail DVDs or operating system files contained within DVD or ISO media.