Buy a PC and save 50% on a Windows 7 upgrade for another PC

What do I get?

You'll get one upgrade copy of your choice of Windows 7 Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate. The package will include both 32-bit and 64-bit discs. Here's what you need to know about 32-bit and 64-bit PCs.

What does it cost?

The estimated price for a copy of Windows 7 Home Premium is $49.99, Windows 7 Professional is $99.99, and Windows 7 Ultimate is $119.99. This is about 50% off standard retail prices, although actual prices may vary.

When can I get it?

This offer begins on October 22, 2009 and ends on January 2, 2010.

Where can I get it?

This offer is available from participating retailers.

How do I get it?

You have to buy the copy of the upgrade software at the same time you buy a qualifying PC from a participating retailer.

When is the offer available?

This offer begins on October 22, 2009 and ends on January 2, 2010.

What's the benefit of running Windows 7 on more than one PC?

When you run Windows 7 on more than one PC, you can do more. For example, you can use HomeGroup to quickly connect PCs and share files, music, and photos with the whole family. You can also share a printer with all the PCs in your home. (Please make sure the PC you want to use can run Windows 7. See "What you need" below.)

How do I know if I'm eligible?

You're eligible if you buy a qualifying PC from a participating retailer. Also, the PC you're upgrading needs to be running a genuine copy of the Windows XP or Windows Vista operating systems.

You need a PC that can run Windows 7

You need to make sure Windows 7 will work on the PC you want to upgrade. Depending on the version of Windows you're using, installing Windows 7 on your PC can be a lengthy process. Here's what you should check before you buy Windows 7:

• Run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor to see if your PC can run Windows 7.

• Review this information to learn about your upgrade options and what you'll need to do to upgrade your PC.

• Know what works before you upgrade. Visit the Windows 7 Compatibility Center to see if your other devices, hardware, and software will work on your PC after you move to Windows 7.

For quick reference, here are the Windows 7 system requirements:

• 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor

• 1 gigabyte (GB) RAM (32-bit) / 2 GB RAM (64-bit)

• 16 GB available disk space (32-bit) / 20 GB (64-bit)

• DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver

There are additional requirements for certain features:

• Internet access (fees may apply)

• Depending on resolution, video playback may require additional memory and advanced graphics hardware

• For some Windows Media Center functionality, a TV tuner and additional hardware may be required

• Windows Touch and Windows Tablet require specific hardware

• HomeGroup requires a network and PCs with Windows 7

• DVD/CD authoring requires a compatible optical drive

• BitLocker requires TPM1.2; BitLocker To Go requires a USB flash drive

• Music and sound require audio output

Windows XP Mode requires:

• Additional 1 GB of RAM

• Additional 15 GB of available disk space

• Processor capable of hardware virtualization, with Intel VT or AMD-V turned on

Product functionality and graphics may vary based on your system configuration.

Here are places you can go for information:

• Get answers. Use Microsoft Answers to get tips and advice from the pros.

• Get started on Windows 7. Make your transition to Windows 7 a smoother move with these setup tips.

• Get up and running in a snap. For additional help getting your PC up and running on Windows 7, talk to your PC manufacturer or visit your local retailer.