Hewlett-Packard and Lenovo Group will provide a free upgrade to Microsoft Windows 7 operating system to customers who buy computers pre-installed operating system Windows Vista.

Customers who buy computers with Windows Vista will require that the PC manufacturer's Web site to check upgrade eligibility. Qualified customers will receive Windows 7 to upgrade the disk to start October 22, when the new operating system became widely used.

HP customers will be eligible to participate in the plan Thursday. Users can check their qualifications, HP's Windows 7 to upgrade the site. Users will receive Windows 7 DVD and hard drive upgrade tools to help them install a new operating system.

Leaflets within the computer box Lenovo customers will be informed whether there are eligible for upgrade said that the Lenovo spokesman in an e-mail Christine Fair. Leaflets direct customers, Lenovo's Windows 7 to upgrade Web site.

The company plans to provide upgrade options for people who buy Windows XP or Windows Vista system, said fair. Customers are required to purchase personal computers early next year, will be eligible for upgrade next year.

Dell and Acer refused to comment on its plans to upgrade. Fujitsu refused to comment on the Windows 7 upgrade options, it plans to provide.

Microsoft will be authorized to provide free Windows 7 PC manufacturers through January 31, the company said Thursday. Qualifying partners will provide a free upgrade to new computer users, but Microsoft requires users to check with the PC manufacturers to upgrade the qualifications.