Gaming Should I update to Windows 7?

[Originality]

Dedicated graphics card, or discreet graphics processing unit?

Cards can be removed and upgraded easily (one of the main features of desktops). GPUs are more difficult, often impossible, to upgrade (one of the main downsides for laptops), especially in the case of IGPs like the Intel series.

Although, we don't know if Jakob95's "computer" is a desktop or a laptop - it's not been mentioned. The E6600 mentioned in the OP uses LGA 775, which implies desktop. Assuming it is, then putting in any graphics card (so long as it's not, like, a 6 year old budget-range GPU) will provide a huge performance boost and free up all the memory that the Intel IGP uses.

And to answer the original question: I think you should upgrade to Windows 7. Aside from the platform and security updates, I think it has a nicer feel than XP.

EDIT: ...ok, ignore my post - I missed the second page in my reading.

 

[Jakob95]

Hm I have the restore plus disk with me right now. How am I supposed to use it? You use it when you just turn on the computer right?

 

[Rydian]

1 - Put disc in.

2 - Restart.

3 - If it asks you to press a key to boot from CD when it's starting up, do it.

And again, this will wipe anything that's currently on it.

 

[Jakob95]

1 - Put disc in.

2 - Restart.

3 - If it asks you to press a key to boot from CD when it's starting up, do it.

And again, this will wipe anything that's currently on it.

Yep I know I backed up all my pictures and videos into an External Hard Drive. I am going to upgrade later I hope its worth it. Not really sure if its going to be a huge difference compared to XP.

 

[Rydian]

Somebody's never used it before...

 

[Panzer Tacticer]

In a FEW cases 64 won't like some older programs.

Go with 32 bit unless you INTEND to go past 4 gigs of ram. Because until you do, 64 bit is not required.

As for using 7 damned right. First OS since 98 that has been worth squat.

 

[tj_cool]

Before you install it, run the Windows 7 upgrade advisor.
It'll tell you what will work and whatnot after the update.
And more importantly: if your PC can handle it.

 

[Rydian]

It came with the computer, he just decided to install XP when he got it.

 

[tj_cool]

oh, nvm then

 

[Jakob95]

Before you install it, run the Windows 7 upgrade advisor.
It'll tell you what will work and whatnot after the update.
And more importantly: if your PC can handle it.

I did it and it says it can handle any version of Windows 7. Plus on my computer it has a sticker of Windows 7. It even came with the disks. I only have 64Bit Windows 7 so I can't get 32Bit.

EDIT: Oops didn't read after that post.