Background

• Windows Vista is a newer operating system than Windows XP, with additional functionality and a more advanced graphical interface.
  
  

Methods

• Depending on the version of Windows XP you have installed and which version of Windows Vista you have purchased, you may be able to perform an upgrade installation of Windows Vista. This will update the operating system while leaving programs and settings intact. Alternatively, you may prefer to back up your data and perform a fresh installation, then reinstall your programs and restore your data. This is likely to result in a cleaner and faster installation of Windows Vista.
  
  

Considerations

• Some of your older hardware and software may not be compatible with Windows Vista, so you are advised to check before migrating that everything you need will still function afterward. Windows Vista is known for being more demanding of your computer hardware than Windows XP, so you may wish to consider upgrading your memory and/or processor to ensure your computer doesn't feel slower when the migration is complete.