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I’ve been a Windows beta tester since Windows ’95 – and I personally love seeing what the next generation of Windows holds for us PC users. I’ve got the beta running on both my laptop and my primary desktop, but with the new release candidate for Windows 7 (that anyone can grab and use for an entire year free), I want to move over to that. Since I’m using, maybe foolishly, my primary desktop as a testing machine the thought of doing a clean install scares me. (Which Microsoft would prefer you do, but I’m not all about following “rules”.)

So while looking for information on how to hack an upgrade install I found a page worth sharing. It not only lists how to shim this hack, but also some notable changes and things you should be aware of before making the leap to the Windows 7 RC.

Here is a sample of the 12 things ‘you should know’;

11. What the changes are:

Everyone always asks what the changes are. Microsoft has listed 64 changes from the Beta RC  here,here, and here. If you want the short version, here’s a quick list of the most significant changes:

Improved Taskbar: Can now fit 24-39% more icons depending on your resolution, opened apps stand out more, smaller jumplists, and items that need your attention now blink faster.

UAC vulnerability fix: Every time the level of UAC is changed, you will be prompted for confirmation.

Stream your music library over the Internet in Windows Media Player: This feature would be great if easier to use. To access it, go to Library in WMP and click on Stream in the breadcrumb. It is a lengthy process but the instructions given should get you where you want.

Turn Windows features on or off: Yes you can finally “uninstall” IE8 or other “unnecessary” Windows features. Read about it here

Improved Driver Support: Didn’t download the beta because of all those hardware incompatibility stories you’ve heard? It’s still not perfect in the RC but a lot has improved since the Beta. It’s worth a try.

Insane wallpapers, new themes and sound schemes: If you love customization, Windows 7 RC will satisfy your tastes. There are a lot more goodies added for you to customize to your liking in the RC.

via 12 things you need to know before installing Windows 7 RC | Windows 7 Center.