First Class Upgrade to Windows 7

Now that Windows 7 is available, many XP holdouts are looking for a hassle-free way to upgrade to the new Microsoft operating system or move their existing files to a new Windows 7-equipped machine. While switching from Vista is straightforward and Windows 7's Easy Transfer tool will manage the transfer of documents, e-mails, settings and users accounts, it won't move programs.

Enter Laplink's PCMover, which makes the entire process relatively painless. It comes in four versions: PCMover Netbook ($29.95), Home ($39.95), Professional ($59.95) and Upgrade Assistant ($19.95) for in-place upgrades on the same computer.

The Home edition supports file and folder selectivity and an "undo" migration function. The Netbook edition adds application and domain-user and multiple-user selectivity, while the Professional edition for multiple upgrades includes a USB 2.0 cable and is compatible with Windows 95, 98 and Me.

PCMover takes users step-by-step through migrating data between the two operating systems, providing warnings and instructions throughout the process. It also includes a printable PDF Quick Start Guide that can be used as a playbook, and the program allows the transfer to take place across a network, via a USB or Windows Transfer cable or any type of removable media that can be read by a PC.

Moving is never easy, and data migration can be especially intimidating for the casual computer user. But PCMover is  that friend you can call when you need help with some heavy lifting -- except in this case it's data instead of desks and boxes of dishes.

-- Posted by Doug Newcomb, special to MSN Tech & Gadgets