Computers Windows

How To Obtain the Latest Windows Upgrade

Published at 03/15/2012 05:17:26

Introduction

The Windows operating system probably is the most singularly important aspect of using a personal computer. Much of the activities that users perform on a desktop or laptop are based on compatibility with the Windows OS. For example, the System Requirements section for a third party piece of software often starts off with what version of Windows that program has compatibility. The same goes for hardware, such as adding a TV tuner or graphics card to a desktop after it has left the factory.

As time goes on, Microsoft improves and enhances on its Windows operating system, by simply releasing a newer version. For example, Windows XP was replaced by Windows Vista, which was replaced by Windows 7; Windows 8 is set to be the next upgrade.

Owners don't have to obtain the latest upgrade, but there are obvious advantages. Upgrades take care of major technical problems that occurred in previous versions. Upgrades also help users have preparedness for whatever new software programs and hardware programs are to be released in the future because, in many cases, Microsoft closely partners with other developers and system builders to ensure harmony and headache free experiences. On the other hand, the latest upgrade can render your third party software and hardware useless and obsolete, if they aren't compatible with a newer version of Windows.

If you do decide to upgrade, there are at least five possible ways to perform this task.

Step 1

Visit your local electronics or computer retailer to obtain the latest Windows upgrade. Walk over to the Software section and look for the Microsoft Windows section. Read the label carefully to determine if you are paying full price as a new user of Windows or the upgraded price.

Microsoft programmed the upgraded software to check the existing version of Windows on your PC. Because you already outright own a copy of a previous version, the company offers the upgraded version at a discount, compared to new users. However, if you don't have an existing copy of Windows on your computer, then the upgraded software will not install either.

Ask the sales clerk at the store for assistance in choosing the right software.

 

Step 2

Obtain the latest Windows upgrade from an online retailer, such as Amazon.com or Buy.com. The company usually ships the installation disc to your home.

Step 3

Buy a new computer now, that includes the opportunity to upgrade to the latest version of Windows when Microsoft releases the retail version.

Step 4

Order the latest Windows upgrade from the Microsoft.com website.

Step 5

Download the latest Service Pack for your existing version of Windows, which is another type of upgrade. For example, Windows XP is now on Service Pack 3 as the latest in that version, which was an upgrade from Service Packs 1 and 2.

Tips

You can reinstall a previous version of the operating system if the latest Windows upgrade does not work out. You will need the installation or system recovery disks.

 

Sources and Citations

  1. " Get Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1) on DVD." Microsoft Windows. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Mar. 2012. <http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/get-windows-7-service-pack-1-sp1-on-dvd>.
  2. " How can I tell if my computer is up to date?." Microsoft Windows. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Mar. 2012. <http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/How-can-I-tell-if-my-computer-is-up-to-date>.
  3. " Learn how to install Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1)." Microsoft Windows. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Mar. 2012. <http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/learn-how-to-install-windows-7-service-pack-1-sp1>.
  4. " Upgrading from Windows Vista to Windows 7 - Help & How-to - Microsoft Windows." Microsoft Windows. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Mar. 2012. <http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/help/upgrading-from-windows-vista-to-windows-7?T1=tab03>.
  5. " Upgrading from Windows XP to Windows 7 - Help & How-to - Microsoft Windows." Microsoft Windows. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Mar. 2012. <http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/help/upgrading-from-windows-xp-to-windows-7?T1=tab03>.
  6. " Upgrading to Windows 7: frequently asked questions." Microsoft Windows. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Mar. 2012. <http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/upgrading-to-windows-7-frequently-asked-questions>.
  7. " What is the System Update Readiness Tool?." Microsoft Windows. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Mar. 2012. <http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/What-is-the-System-Update-Readiness-Tool>.
  8. " What's included in Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1)." Microsoft Windows. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Mar. 2012. <http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/whats-included-in-windows-7-service-pack-1-sp1>.
  9. " Which version of the Windows operating system am I running?." Microsoft Windows. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Mar. 2012. <http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/help/which-version-of-the-windows-operating-system-am-i-running>.
  10. " Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 (SP1) installation error: 0x800F0A12." Microsoft Windows. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Mar. 2012. <http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/windows-7-windows-server-2008-r2-service-pack-1-sp1-installation-error-0x800F0A12>.
  11. " Windows Anytime Upgrade - Upgrade your Windows 7 edition - Microsoft Windows." Microsoft Windows. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Mar. 2012. <http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/products/windows-anytime-upgrade>.

 

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