Howdy:

Maybe you can help me connect-the-dots?

I am upgrading 32-bit xp to 64-bit 7.  If I backup program FILES, then install 7, then restore the program files onto 7, why won't the programs work?  (I'm sure it hasn't something to do with the registry and, or drivers?)

I did find Microsoft's "Easy Transfer" utility which I will use, or just reinstall the programs; but mainly, I'm just trying to understand why a simple backup and restore wouldn't work?

Thanks.Almost all programs install certain settings into the registry (sometimes just a couple of entries, sometimes - as in the CASE of MS Office - literally hundreds of entries). Those registry entries are required for the programs to START and run. If you do an in place OS upgrade then in most CASES the programs will run. But if you are doing a clean install then you need to reinstall all programs. Thanks Allen.

I am doing a clean install.  Are you familiar with "Windows Easy Transfer?"  I wonder if I'll still have to reinstall programs or if that utility will do it for me?Windows Easy Transfer will allow you to migrate files and settings, but you can not transfer programs. You will need to reinstall all apps - which frankly you want to do anyway with a new install.Here you go: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-vista/features/easy-transfer.aspxThanks again!You're WELCOME. Good luck with the install and enjoy W7