Although Windows 7 will not be released for three months, Microsoft has already released its Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor so you can start planning ahead. Friendly Computers has more information below…
In general, if your PC can run Windows Vista, it can run Windows 7. But if you're not running Windows Vista, or are just not sure if your system is ready to run Windows 7, there's a quick way to do a simple check.
Just download, install, and run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor Beta. You'll get a report telling you if your PC can run Windows 7 and if there are any known compatibility issues. If an issue can be resolved, you'll get suggestions for next steps. For example, it may let you know that you need an updated driver for your printer and where to get it.
Note: Information about your PC will be sent back to Microsoft; however, no information will be used to identify or contact you. For more information, read our privacy statement.
Before you begin
Before you run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor Beta, be sure to plug in any USB devices or other devices such as printers, external hard drives, or scanners that are regularly used with the PC you're evaluating.
Important: The Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor Beta is a pre-release version and is available in U.S. English only. While we consider this a stable and high-quality beta, it's not the finished product.
Next steps
When the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor scan ends, it'll display your options for upgrading a PC you already have or recommend that you just go buy a new PC for the best Windows 7 experience.
In general, if you are running a PC with Windows Vista and the Windows Upgrade Advisor says you can upgrade it, the transition to Windows 7 should be pretty smooth, although you may first need to update your Windows Vista system to the latest service pack. If you do decide to upgrade your PC, Windows 7 will be available for purchase October 22.
On the other hand, if you're running Windows XP, or any other operating system for that matter, we recommend that you experience Windows 7 on a new PC. The Laptop Scout can help you find a great PC fit for you, or you can browse through these featured PCs that can run Windows 7.
...And while we don't recommend it, should you choose to upgrade your current PC from Windows XP or another operating system to Windows 7, we recommend that you get help with this process from your local computer service provider. You'll need to back up your current files and settings, perform a custom (clean) installation, and then reinstall your files, settings, and programs.
Source: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/get/upgrade-advisor.aspx
