Microsoft allows Windows 7 via USB

If you’re looking to upgrade your netbook to Windows 7, don’t order a DVD.

Microsoft announced today that it will allow netbook users to upgrade with a USB stick or portable hard drive. Because the vast majority of netbooks don’t have an optical drive, this is the only way to install without hooking up an external optical drive.

Microsoft has set up a section of its Web site for users who want to do this, but so far there doesn’t appear to be any instructions aside from telling users to download Windows 7 directly onto their flash drives.

Speaking to CNet, the company warned that installing via USB is an advanced maneuver not meant for the average user, but from what I can tell, all you need to do is tap into your computer’s BIOS upon startup. Usually that’s just a matter of holding down a certain F-command on the keyboard when prompted. Then, you tell the computer to boot from USB, and you can take the installation from there.

I get the sense that Microsoft’s not expecting many netbook users to upgrade (a company representative refers to these consumers as “enthusiasts”), and for a few good reasons. For starters, most netbooks are running Windows XP, and upgrading to Windows 7 requires a complete hard drive wipe and a clean install. Also, upgrading to Windows 7 costs $120, which is a hefty investment for a machine that costs so little to begin with.

Besides, Windows XP works pretty well for netbooks. Microsoft speaks of “[i]mproved design, better interaction with your devices, and easier switching between programs,” but those are vague incentives, rather than distinct advantages.

But if you really can’t resist, at least you’ve now got a way to upgrade without hunting for an external DVD drive.