If I download Win 8, will it install straight over Win 7 and allow me to keep everything as it is? Or will it wipe everything, meaning I'll have to back up to another HDD first? I'm a bit of a noob, sorry.
Either choices , guide here,http://www.techradar.com/reviews/pc-mac/software/operating-systems/windows-8-1093002/review/2
Upgrade from Windows 7 and you can keep programs, Windows settings and files; upgrade from Vista and keep settings and files. Upgrading from Windows XP only gives you your personal files.