How to install new SSD and upgrade to Win 7

Hi!

Im thinking of upgrading my M4400's hard drive to 256GB SSD and also at the same time upgrading from Win Vista 64-bit to Win 7 64-bit.

Can I first download Win 7 as an upgrade and then change the HD to SSD, then do a fresh install of Win7 from a HD/USB stick? I have replaced my DVD player with a 2nd HD so can I install from that?

Also can I upgrade this version of Win Vista or do I need to buy a fresh Win 7? I assume I can upgrade...?

Thanks!

Sami

 

Assuming your M4400 has a Vista CoA, you are indeed entitled to get a Windows 7 upgrade license. I know you can install it from a USB using the Microsoft tool, but you may have to jump through hoops to make it install from an HDD.

 

Thanks! How do I find out what version of Vista (CoA or other?) I have on my machine?

 

It should say on the CoA, though it doesn't matter what version you have.

 

The laptop came from Dell with Vista preinstalled. I do remember re-installing Vista once on this machine in 2009... But I can't find any DVD's and there's no Windows sticker on the bottom of the machine that would have any serial number.

Also another question. All I can find online in Microsoft store is to upgrade to Windows 8...

 

The CoA should be under the battery. I don't know what's the deal with W7 availability now that W8 is out. You may have to get old stock from retail or not from MS online.