Windows 8 Install Takes Only 11 Clicks; Simplified

Windows 8 will apparently be much simpler to install and does not require faster hardware specifications than Windows 7, allowing some XP machines to run the new operating system (OS).

The changes center around allowing most people to simply download Windows 8, unlike previous upgrades that involved great complexity.

For example, a user might have to download and run an Upgrade Advisor tool; save files and settings; run the set-up and installation; and finally reinstall all applications and settings. A process like this might involve 60 or so separate screens, many of them repetitive.

Windows 8: Streamlined Install Saves Time

Windows 8 upgrades involve only a single process, which adjusts itself to avoid carrying out the same task twice.

Upgrading from a previous Windows installation will begin with a scan of the current system to determine necessary changes, followed by a download of the most ideal Windows 8 version. There will be no special download manager, and no need to save interim files.

Users will select data they want to retain from their current version of Windows. However, Windows XP users will be able to transfer only user accounts and files, while Windows Vista users will also be able to transfer certain Windows settings. Windows 7 users will not only be able to transfer all of those files and settings, they won't need to reinstall applications.

The set-up process will also fix any potential hold-ups, such as too little disk space to complete the installation.

Windows 8 Upgrade: Simpified

Microsoft claims these changes will compress the entire upgrade process to just 11 clicks.

The time saved, compared with upgrading to Windows 7, will depend on the number of files and applications to be transferred. A completely clean installation with no files or applications to copy will shave 31 minutes to 21 minutes.

An "average" upgrade will take just 42 minutes, instead of 131 for Windows 7. A "heavy" upgrade with many files and applications will finish in just 46 minutes, compared with 188 minutes. (Source: msdn.com)

Windows 7, having so many files and applications to copy, requires dramatically more time for installation. Windows 8 needs fewer files changed over, so those with a more complex setup could see installation time slashed by as much as 90 per cent.

Microsoft states the hardware requirements for Windows 8 will be minimized, and that people currently running Windows XP or Vista should be able to upgrade without needing a new machine.

Third-party reports suggest few new hardware demands beyond those for Windows 7. (Source: informationweek.com)