Looking at the system requirements of Windows 7 is one thing. Being able to compare them to the actual hardware build into a computer system another. Many computer users have limited knowledge about computer hardware which makes it extremely difficulty for them to find out if their computer system is able to run a specific software program. This is not obviously a problem for those users who purchase a new computer system that comes installed with Windows 7. Users who want to upgrade their existing operating system do on the other hand need to know that it is capable of running Windows 7.
There are other factors that play a role in the decision. Many companies use hardware devices that are connected to their computer systems on a regular basis. This can be printers, scanners, fax machines and basically anything that can be connected. Ensuring that these devices continue to work under Windows 7 is one of the essential tasks before upgrading computer systems.
Microsoft’s Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor has just been released as a downloadable beta (via Download Squad, Windows Experience) version. The Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor is compatible with Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP.
Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor examines a PC’s processor, memory, storage, and graphics capabilities, identifies known compatibility issues with installed software and devices and finally provides guidance on how to resolve those issues if possible.
Microsoft recommends to connect all devices to the computer system before running Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor. The results are divided into the three categories System Requirements, Devices and Programs. Windows XP users will for example be notified in the System Requirements category that they need to perform a clean installation of Windows 7. Programs not compatible with Windows 7 will be listed under the programs section.
The Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor is an excellent tool for users who want to test their computer system’s compatibility with Windows 7.
