upgrading your current PC to Microsoft Vista, it's important to understand your upgrade options. Your choices depend on the version of Windows that is currently running on your PC and the type of computer hardware you have to run certain features.
You can upgrade from your current edition of Microsoft Windows XP or Windows 2000 to a corresponding or better edition of Windows Vista by purchasing and installing an upgrade copy of Windows Vista. If you're upgrading multiple PCs in a household, you can save time and money with the Windows Vista Family Discount.
With Windows Vista, users will not be able to use upgrade keys to initiate completely new installations. Upgrade versions of Windows Vista Home Basic, Premium, and Starter Edition will not install on any PC unless Windows XP or Windows 2000 is already on the machine in question.
The table below outlines the upgrade options mapped to the different Windows Vista editions.
Requires clean install.
In-place installation option available.