Clarification on "Upgrading from RC/RTM to Final"..

Hello all,

I've noticed alot of people wondering if they'll be able to simply Upgrade from the RC to the Final Retail version once it goes live on October 22nd, 2009.

Short answer: NO..

You will have to do a Clean Install to go from the RC to the Final Retail Version.. An upgrade just won't work.. So my advice is to start creating backups of all your personal files now so once the Retail goes live your all set to go and won't need to spend hours burning stuff before installing..

Now, this is where you need to remember the little "Upgrade Media Trick" so you don't end up spending more money on Windows 7 than you really have to.. Refer to the following thread for the Guide on "How to perform a Clean Install using the Upgrade Media": Info regarding Upgrade Media..

This trick will allow you to purchase the Upgrade version of Windows 7 and still be able to perform a Clean Install.. Thus saving you a good chunk of money and still allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a Clean Install..

My apologies if this thread is a tad repetitive but I felt it was neccessary as the same questions are being asked over and over in various sections of the forum.. Hopefully this clears things up a bit..

Cheers for now!

Ok I figured that would be the most likely scenario. I personally don't own vista I never left XP but love Win 7 would I be able to reinstall XP then use the upgrade disc to win7? I would I even need to reinstall XP? I'm somewhat of a OS novice.

My apologies I probably should have read your Info regarding Upgrade Media thread first
Big thanks to you all around

The Free Upgrade program was around when VISTA first came out and should be used wisely. I got it when VISTA was around and thoroughly enjoyed it.

I'm still not quite sure what the difference between RTM and Final are if they are supposed to be "identical". If they are identical, why would one even need to "upgrade" from the RTM to the final? Can someone please clarify? Thanks.

"RTM" and "Final" are tossed round interchangeably...... They refer to the same thing (keep reading). One would not upgrade from RTM to Final or anything else for that matter. When the final builds are voted on and approved, probably 7300, they will be what is available in the stores and on TechNet, etc. and will be referred to as RTM or Final. The issue will be whether you can upgrade any of the RC's or Beta's to RTM, likely Build 7300. I content where there is a will their is a way. The main issue is why? Any upgrade (other than upgrading to itself to avoid having to buy the "Full Version") leaves stuff around from the previous build. A clean install is the way to go since that will hopefully be the last install you do unless you crash or get a new machine. Again, I intend to fully explore the upgrade from RC to RTM just to see if it can be done but I'll ultimately do a clean install.

I was also a little confused by the OP on this one. I assume it must be a mistype, as the way it's worded they're putting RC/RTM together as though you might want to 'upgrade' from RTM to the Final. Obviously you can't 'upgrade' from the RTM as it's the exact same thing as the Final. The only distinction is that RTM is when the product is finalised, and shortly after is made available to OEMs - Final is when the same version hits the shelves for the public to buy.

Originally Posted by mfarmilo

I was also a little confused by the OP on this one. I assume it must be a mistype, as the way it's worded they're putting RC/RTM together as though you might want to 'upgrade' from RTM to the Final. Obviously you can't 'upgrade' from the RTM as it's the exact same thing as the Final. The only distinction is that RTM is when the product is finalised, and shortly after is made available to OEMs - Final is when the same version hits the shelves for the public to buy.

You assumed correctly.. Thanks...

In a letter from Microsoft, you will be able to upgrade from windows 7 rc to whatever system you purchase, Windows 7 basic, home premium, professional etc... I purchased the Professional version as it has all the features I need without the extra junk I never use anyway. This letter came out 3 weeks ago fromTechNet News letters. I was worried about this as I upgraded from Vista home Premium to Windows 7. I made back up discs just to be safe. I was afraid I would have to re-install my original OS before being able to upgrade to Win 7.

They say there is a way to upgrade the RC to the RTM.

How to Upgrade the Windows 7 RC to RTM (Final Release) :: the How-To Geek