Parallels eases Windows 7 upgrade pain

SOFTWARE OUTFIT Parallels is trying to peddle some code that it says will help ease the pain of the transition to Windows 7.

The software takes all your files and programs from a Windows XP or Vista PC and packages them up to be used on either a new PC or an existing one upgraded to Windows 7.

Of course some programs will not work with Windows 7 and so Parallels uses its virtualization technology to allow the applications to run in the newer operating system.

Parallels Desktop Upgrade to Windows 7 will go on sale next month with a suggested price of $49. It comes wth a high-speed USB cable that adds $10 to the price.

Parallels CEO Serguei Beloussov said the software provides a simple and safe solution for Windows XP and Vista customers who are a bit perplexed by upgrading to Windows 7.

It might be good for the Vole as it tries to encourage more users to dump XP and Vista in favour of Windows 7.

While Microsoft has its own tool for moving data and settings during a Windows 7 upgrade, the "Easy Transfer" option requires users to re-install all of their applications.

Those who have installed all their software well away from Windows on another partition or another hardrive that is stored on a different planet will probably be laughing. µ