For those who have downloaded or are in the process of downloading the Windows 8 Release Preview, here are some tips when it comes to upgrading your current operating system to the Release Preview. Those on the Consumer Preview cannot upgrade to the Release Preview.
According to Microsoft: “Yes, you can upgrade to Windows 8 Release Preview from Windows 8 Consumer Preview, Windows Developer Preview, Windows 7, Windows Vista, or Windows XP, but you might not be able to keep all of your files, programs, and settings.” There you have it. They key words being “you might not be able to keep all of your files, programs, and settings.” Take a look at the chart below to see what operating system is upgradable to the Windows 8 Release Preview:
For those who create a bootable DVD of Windows 8 Release Preview, you will not be able to keep your files, programs, or settings, unless you launch the Windows 8 Release Preview setup within Windows.
If you need to retrieve certain files from your old installation of Windows, from within Windows 8 Release Preview, simply navigate to your “C” drive and check out the “Windows.old” folder.
