Member Avatar for trinamick

I am supposed to upgrade my boss's computer from the worthless Vista Home Premium to Vista Business. He purchased the upgrade disk. Is it necessary to do a clean install? I ask because of some time constraints. (Bosses think everything can be completed over a lunch hour, and he will need his laptop up and running before court.) Any suggestions would make my day.

  • 5 Contributors
  • 4 Replies
  • 110 Views
  • 2 Months Discussion Span
  • Latest Post Latest Post by az49er

Dani AI

Generated

There are conflicting replies above. Whether you can do a non-destructive upgrade in one lunch break depends on the upgrade media/license and the laptop itself. Before touching anything, verify a few facts so the attempt doesn't leave the machine unusable.

  • Confirm the current Vista edition and whether it is 32-bit or 64-bit (System control panel). The installer must match the architecture.
  • Check the disc/packaging for whether it is an OEM, retail, or "upgrade" SKU — that affects what the installer will allow and whether a qualifying existing licence is required.
  • Make a fast, targeted backup: copy Desktop, Documents, email data (PST or export), browser bookmarks and any case-critical files to an external drive. If time allows, create a disk image or recovery media from the vendor utilities.
  • Gather drivers/recovery media from the laptop maker and plug the machine into AC power before you start.

Fast, reliable lunchtime workflow: pre-stage the files above, plug in, run the setup and see if the installer offers a non-destructive upgrade option (this is normally faster). If the installer requires a clean install, postpone unless you have time to reinstall apps and restore files. After any upgrade test printing, network access and the specific documents/apps needed for court.

— do not gamble the court deadline. was right to stress backups; , and give differing takes on whether an in-place path exists, which is why those media/license checks matter. If the answer is unclear, copy essentials and reschedule the full upgrade for a controlled maintenance window.

Recommended Answers

All 4 Replies

Member Avatar for scru

Sorry if I am too late.

Vista Home premium will only upgrade to Ultimate.

So yeah a clean install might be needed, assuming the disc and key you have allow clean installs (I know nothing of this)

Member Avatar for Michael_Knight

Actually, Vista ships with all versions in one package and the version you install depends on the serial number.

When you install Vista, don't enter any serial and click next, you are prompted to choose what version of Vista you wish to install. You are given a 30 day grace period (MSDN/Technet get 180/60 days).

You can enter the serial you have once installed.

I would do a clean install though, so remember to back up everything first (files and any folders) then use the Windows Easy Transfer wizard to copy User Account settings and system configurations and more.

To do this Press Start > Run and type migwiz then click ok and follow the instructions.

Member Avatar for forumdude123

i think you only can do a clean install.

Why couldn't that lazy boss of yours do the upgrade

Member Avatar for az49er

Upgrade to business is a standard install. Put in the disk and let er rip.
been there, done that.
Gener

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.