I understand that if I convert my 2006 files to version 2007, I can't reverse the process, but can I maintain both programs on my system and run them in parallel until I decide that 2007 is sufficiently stable, using separate data files (I'd make a 2006 backup before I did the conversion)? Does the installation process have the effect of uninstalling earlier versions?
Installations of newer versions of Quicken default to wanting to delete earlier versions of Quicken.
You can over-ride this default: when you are offered the first opportunity to continue the installation process by clicking "Next": hold down CTRL+SHIFT while clicking Next. The installation process will then present you with message dialog saying it will not attempt to uninstall previous versions.
No problems I am aware of.
In fact, I began having problems with Q2006 some time ago and finally decided to uninstall it. I never used it for anything but testing, and I attributed its problems to the fact that I had several other Quicken versions installed at the time and that I had done quite a few uninstalls/re-installs of Q2006 and the other versions during my testing. I now have one pc with Q2008, Q2007, Q2005, Q2004 and Q2002 installed.
You may experience a few problems with multiple versions installed (there's a good reason Quicken wants to uninstall other versions when you install it), but in my experience, none of them are serious (none has ever damaged my data, so far as I know).
The most annoying one that I am aware of is having the option to "Automatically memorize new payees" randomly turned on by Quicken (I always have it off). This would create a great deal of clutter in my Memorized Payee List before I would realize it was happening.
Also watch out for the files in your Most Recently Used files list: don't try to open one from the wrong version.
As always - even if you never have more than one version installed at the same time: backup after every use of Quicken - even if only to your hard drive. [I have a Quicken backup folder for each day of the week; I can always get to the most recent 7 backups, after that, there's Quicken's auto-backups which happen every week or so.]
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