What you can do before attempting the upgrade? If you want to backup themes, wallpapers and other minor features, Windows Easy Transfer is another option, you can learn more about it here
In addition to System Imaging, you can backup just your personal files using Backup and Restore, to do that, check out the following article:
Learn more about how to backup your Window 7 installation here Thankfully, all editions of Windows 7 includes system imaging, which means you can backup your entire Windows 7 installation and restore it if it fails. When making significant changes to your computer such as an upgrade, it is always recommended you backup your system prior to installing a new version of Windows.
It is possible that if the software is compatible with Windows Vista it will likely work with Windows 8 since they share the same driver model.
In this scenario, we are going to upgrade to Windows 7 while looking at how it preserves your existing investments. In this scenario, I have a typical Windows 7 setup with some applications installed and some personal files stored in the Documents Library. Upgrading also preserves your Windows Settings too.
This avoids the need to do things like reinstall hardware drivers and applications. One of the major differences between upgrading from Windows 7 compared to Windows Vista and XP is, Windows 8 allows you to preserve your installed applications when upgrading from Windows 7. They may or may not entice you, but if you are going to upgrade, here are some steps to help you make a smooth transition to Windows 8. These are just some of the key areas where Windows 8 advances over Windows 7.
If it works with Vista or Windows 7, it is guaranteed to work with Windows 8.