For MS Technet subscribers the final version of Windows 7 was released recently. If you are unable to upgrade directly from the pre-release version – at least not without a fast and simple workaround – we can help.

The Problem

To prevent you from upgrading further Windows 7 checks if the current version you are running is a pre-release copy or not, and then prevents you from further upgrading. Just for reference this is the error message you receive when you try to make that upgrade.

How do you fix this?

The way around it is to edit a file which is inside the Windows 7 DVD – you will need to extract this to your hard drive before you proceed.

If you are using the DVD itself just simply copy all the files from the DVD into a folder on your hard drive.
If you are using an ISO image for the installation, you can simply use the 7-zip utility to extract the ISO to a folder on your hard drive.

Once you have extracted your file, browse to the *sources* folder to find the cversion.ini file.

Open up the cversion.ini file and you’ll notice that the MinClient line has a value of 7233.0, as the Windows 7 RC release is build 7100 you can see why it’s not working!

Simply change the MinClient value to something less than the current build you are using. For the RC release you can change it to 7000

All you need to do here is launch the setup.exe file from within the folder, and do your upgrade directly from your hard drive. Once you have started the setup, click *install now*

When you see this screen just choose to upgrade the existing install

When you have reached the Compatibility Report Screen (be happy if it doesn’t show up) you’ll see a list of applications that probably won’t work once you upgrade. Realistically while most of these apps will work just fine, the important thing is you will be able to upgrade.

TIP – You can always smooth the upgrade process by removing any apps that do have a compatibility problem, BEFORE you do the upgrade.

The upgrade should start working now, but it will take a long time.

Here are some important things to keep in mind when you are upgrading to the final version.

When possible you should back up all your files first and do a clean install. There are a lot less problems this way and you get the benefit of a nice clean profile

The Window 7 Beta or RC release were *Ultimate* editions, so you’ll only be able to upgrade to the RTM (final) if you are installing the Ultimate Edition.

Happy upgrading! If you think this in not your cup of tes, book a computer repairs technician now by calling 1300 883 021.

Over and out

GeeksIQ