Installing and reinstalling Windows 7

There are two options to choose from during the Windows 7 installation process:

• Upgrade. This option replaces your current version of Windows with Windows 7, and keeps your files, settings, and programs in place on your computer.
• Custom. This option replaces your current version of Windows with Windows 7, but doesn't preserve your files, settings, and programs. It's sometimes referred to as a clean installation for that reason.

In this article you'll find detailed instructions for installing Windows 7 and reinstalling Windows 7.

For more information about installing Windows 7, see Installing Windows 7: frequently asked questions and Windows 7 installation problems: frequently asked questions. For more information about upgrade options, go to Upgrading to Windows 7: frequently asked questions on the Windows website.