small question about data when upgrading to windows 10 from 7

26dollar · 30 Aug 2019

If I install windows 10 on the same drive I have windows 7 on, replacing it, will stuff like my documents folder, appdata folders, and everything on my desktop move directly over and be in the same place as they were before?

This is really important because alot of programs depend on those files being in the exact same place on the C drive and when i installed windows 10 on a different drive my old windows 7 /users/ folder which includes the documents, appdata, and desktop folders, was completely invisible and inaccessible which caused alot of problems, like accessing my firefox history which is stored in the appdata folder.

dalchina · 30 Aug 2019

Hi, if you upgrade your existing installation (by logging in to Win 7 then running setup.exe from a mounted iso or a Win 10 installation medium) then yes, your data will be carried over and be accessible in the usual way.

Upgrading is still found to be free.

Upgrade to Windows 10
This guide includes practical advice which can help you succeed, and lots of links to other resources with further links which suggest how to find out how it failed.

Basic preparation;
a. Create a current disk image e.g. using Macrium Reflect- free- so you have a way to get back should things go horribly wrong. (tenforums continually advocates the routine use of disk imaging). (The act of disk imaging also helps to verify the integrity of the used part of your disk)
b. Make sure you have at least 30Gb (say) on C:
c. Uninstall any security software (you may need a new version for Win 10) and some cause frustrating failures for people who then post here.
d. Disconnect any unnecessary peripherals.