QUICK TIP Cheap copies of windows 7 Normally from about three months after launch, which would put it at from February 2010, far cheaper copies of Windows are available from computer fairs and on the internet. Major companies such as Amazon, Dabs and e-Buyer regularly sell full copies of windows for about £80 (UK). It can be worth waiting to upgrade to Windows 7 to take advantage of the cheaper pricing.
WINDOWS ANYTIME UPGRADE Owners of Windows 7 Starter, Home Premium or Professional can upgrade their copy of Windows 7 in-place to a better version using Windows Anytime Upgrade. Accessed through the Start Menu this is a quick and simple way to buy a new product key and upgrade windows in as little as 10 minutes.
You can use this program to transfer all your documents, email and settings to Windows 8 when it becomes available. Bear in mind however that this backup will be extremely big if you have a lot of documents, photos and music. If you have an external hard disk you can back up to this is the best option.
There‘s no need to reinstall Windows, everything is done within your current installation.
UPGRADING TO WINDOWS 8 When Windows 8 launches (it‘s due around 2012), it will have a Windows Easy Transfer utility on the disc, similar to the one bundled with Windows 7. This will make it easy to transfer your files and documents across. Prices correct as of October 2009
US
UK
EU
Starter to Home Premium
$79.99
£69.99
€74.99
Starter to Professional
$114.99
£119.99
€184.99
Starter to Ultimate
$164.99
£139.99
€204.99
Home Premium to Professional
$89.99
£119.99
€179.99
Home Premium to Ultimate
$139.99
£124.99
€189.99
Professional to Ultimate
$129.99
£84.99
€134.99
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