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Repave with Windows7 RTM and import existing user

Repave with Windows7 RTM and import existing user

I'm going to be repaving my machine w/ Win7 RTM shortly, and I'm wondering if there is a way to import an existing user after the install completes?

Asked by: Guest | Views: 238
Total answers/comments: 2
Guest [Entry]

"You can use the built-in Windows Easy Transfer.

The process is explained step by step in this technet article."
Guest [Entry]

"I've tried a few upgrades like this, Windows 7 RC to RTM, and there are a couple of gotchas that I've found.

The main one is that is seems to not handle Skype at all - was left with an as-new install (no password stored, no history) after Easy Transfer. Other things that have failed to come over properly, though mainly irritating, are themes/colour schemes, history in Chrome/Iron, mouse preferences, desktop gadgets, changes to sound scheme, and Live Mesh folder settings. So not a totally hands-off experience, but the interface works well to show you what you need to reinstall.

I recommend using the built-in backup function and making a full backup. This gives you a .vhd file that you can mount in the new install and copy over anything that it missed.
I had to drag the Skype folder back from the C:\Users\Me\AppData\Roaming to restore the history.

In summary, Easy Transfer has some rough edges, but with a full backup for peace of mind, you can go for it, and it is still a lot faster than a full by-hand reinstall."