So I have a Vista machine that is full of viruses. I need to rebuild it, but also want to upgrade to Windows 7. When I purchase the Windows 7 Upgrade, do I need to install Vista first? Or can I go straight to Windows 7.
There was a thread here with links on how to install Win7 without first installing Vista. There are several articles showing work-arounds so you can install Win7 without having to first install the previous O/S using an upgrade version of Win7.
For me, I had to use the registry method and it works just fine. You just have to remember not to enter the product key the first time it asks. When the installation is complete, then you can enter the product key and register it.