Upgrading from XP to Windows 7 or 8?

So I use Parallels for some of the non-mac programs I need for work, and using my old copy of Windows XP from my PC days, I think its finally time to upgrade to Windows 7 at least.

Ive read some conflicting info about not being able to upgrade direct from XP to Windows 7 (that it cant be done) yet I saw a program from Parallels that would allow you to, or that you need to do a full system rebuild thereby losing all the programs you have on your VM, having to reinstall from scratch etc.

Anyone have experience with this process and/or know any good guides/tips/shortcuts?
My mac is an i5 and Im running OSX Mavericks
Thanks in advance!


**Though now I hear windows 7 isnt available any more?

 

Hi Julatron,

Please find below information about upgrading your Windows Virtual Machine to a newer version of Windows operating system;

1. Upgrade to Windows 8.1 from Windows XP:

http://kb.parallels.com/120737

2. Windows 8 upgrade: step by step instructions and tips for Parallels Desktop users:

http://kb.parallels.com/114985

3. What is Windows XP end of support:

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-gb/eos

Windows 7 is currently not availble for sale at the Microsoft store, you can still purchase Windows 7 from any authorized software reseller.

Thanks,
Looran

 

This doesn't work. As far as I can see you can't upgrade from XP to 8.1 through a download

 

Hi robert49,

Yes, you are correct. However, to upgrade to Windows 8.1 from Windows Vista or Windows XP, you'll need to install it from a Windows 8.1 DVD and perform a clean installation. This means your files, settings, or programs will not be automatically transferred from Windows XP to Windows 8.1 after you upgrade.

You could transfer your personal data from your Windows XP Virtual Machine to the new Windows 8.1 Virtual Machine. There are several options of transferring files, settings and user profiles from Windows XP virtual machine to your new Windows 8.1 virtual machine:

1. Manual transfer. You may want to use a USB flash drive or an External Hard drive to copy all your data from your Windows XP virtual machine.

2. Using Laplink PCmover Express for Windows XP: http://kb.parallels.com/120738

3. Using The User State Migration Tool 5.0: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh824873.aspx

Thanks,
Looran