Responding to concerns about loading Windows 7 onto netbooks and other computers that don't have DVD drives, Microsoft introduced a tool to load the software onto a USB memory stick.

A netbook can then boot up from the USB stick, initiating the process of upgrading the PC to Windows 7.

The "Windows 7 USB/DVD Download Tool" is used when you buy a downloadable version of the software from Microsoft's online store. During the download process, buyers are given the option of creating a bootable USB stick or burning a DVD.

A number of hobbyist sites have been offering similar software tools for transferring Windows 7 to USB sticks, although it can take a leap of faith to download and use some of them.

In Monday's Windows 7 review I said the easiest option would be if Microsoft sold USB drives preloaded with the software. Reading between the lines of a Windows team blog entry today, it sounds like that may happen soon.

"We're working with partners now to deliver similar tools through their sites and hope to have more news to share in this regard soon," it said.