Win7/Vista/XP users can upgrade Win8 Consumer Preview

Windows 8 Consumer Preview has been released for download, can you upgrade from previous versions of Windows to Windows 8 Consumer Preview? The answer is yes.

In addition to the new installation, the Windows 8 Consumer Preview allows users to upgrade from existing systems. Users can upgrade from Windows Developer Preview, Windows 7, Windows Vista, or Windows XP to Windows 8 Consumer Preview, but may not be able to keep all files, programs, and settings.

The following table shows the items that can be retained during the upgrade, depending on the current version of Windows:

In addition, Microsoft also warns users that if you make installation media, The media starts the computer and then installs the Windows 8 Consumer Preview, and you won't be able to keep your files, programs or settings. To move files and settings to the Windows 8 Consumer Preview, you must install Windows 8 using the Windows 8 Consumer Preview installer.