Now that Windows 7 is creeping up on general availability, you’ll probably want to remove your RC installation. I assume most of you interested are running these pre-release versions in a dual boot configuration, and so this directly corresponds to our dual boot guide.

If you recall, in the dual boot guide we looked at two separate (yet, fundamentally identical) approaches to creating a new partition with Windows XP or Vista and we intend to do the same here.

Because we originally developed this guide when Microsoft was releasing Windows 7 betas and release candidates, we aim at removing those versions in favor of the now nearly available final version. It should be mentioned however that you could potentially follow the same guidelines as explained below to remove your older XP or Vista installations (while in a dual boot configuration) in favor of Windows 7 Final.

Before you light the match remember that all accumulated documents, pictures, songs, videos etc. on the Windows partition you are deleting will be gone. If you haven't made a backup yet, please do so before proceeding.
Removing Windows 7 using Windows Vista:
If you are currently running Windows Vista, we can use its built-in tools to manipulate your hard drive partitions. If you prefer to use a third-party utility, you can follow the GParted instructions on the next page. Also, be sure to have your Vista DVD on-hand to repair potential boot loader complications.

Boot up Vista, click the Start menu and enter “diskmgmt.msc” into the search bar. A window titl