Windows 7 Guide to New Features, Tools, and Utilities

If you are considering upgrading from an older version of Windows to Windows 7, this Windows 7 guide will hopefully provide you with some insight into the new features, tools, and utilities included in the latest release. There are many technology and UI advancements implemented in Windows 7 in comparison to Windows XP and Windows Vista. Among these improvements include advancements in handwriting recognition technology, touch and speech technology, additional support for file formats and virtual hard disks, improvements to kernel, boot, and multi-core processor performance. There have also been numerous user interface changes from the Desktop to the Explorer that help streamline the overall experience of working within the operating system.

A few of the key changes and new features implemented in Windows 7 include:

Streamlined and Updated Windows Aero User Interface
Additional Device Support
Taskbar Improvements

Streamlined and Updated Aero User Interface
While Windows 7 uses the same basic Windows Aero user interface as Windows Vista, there have been many enhancements and overall improvements made to its design and visual style. The desktop has seen extended support for themes and the Explorer has included a Desktop Slideshow feature. There are also noticeable changes made to the overall feel of the UI including a taskbar that is around 10 pixels larger and much more streamlined in design than its Vista predecessor. There has also been a new approach taken for Gadgets with Windows 7 removing the sidebar and allowing gadgets to be placed on your desktop freely. While there have been significant changes made to UI, there aren’t many changes that will require a Windows 7 guide to get used to.

Additional Device Support
There is a different approach taken to device management in that latest release of the operating system, and we will try to address that in this Windows 7 guide now. While the Device Manger control Panel applet is still available, things have been simplified for the average PC user with the implementation of “Devices and Printers’ within the Control Panel from the Start Menu. This will limit the components to devices that the average user would be able to recognize. This will also replace the “Printers” window in past versions of Windows and take away the majority of the frustration associated with device management when compared to Vista. There is also a feature called “device stage” which will put an icon on the task bar and provide a central location for multi function devices such as MP3 players.

Taskbar Improvements
There have been several improvements made to the  Windows 7 Taskbar that increase the functionality of the most significant UI element for average users. The size has been increased by 10 pixels in height, which helps to support larger icon sizes as well as touch screen input. A border around taskbar icons now indicates open applications and applications can now be pinned to the taskbar.

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* Comprehensive support for Windows 7 Guide
* Diagnosis & repair of your hardware issues
* Troubleshoot software errors
* Connect to Internet, devices and peripherals
* Optimize your computer’s speed and performance

Are you inquisitive about issues and errors that can occur when you upgrade to the latest version of operating system, Windows 7 from evaluation copy?

Windows 7 operating system includes a number of improved features as compared to its predecessors. It includes touch and handwriting recognition, faster boot process and virtual hard disk support. The operating system supports all applications and hardware with which Windows Vista is compatible. It also offers improved performance on multicore processors and support for systems using multiple heterogeneous graphics cards. You need to upgrade from evaluation copy to Windows 7 in order to enjoy myriad of features offered by the operating system ranging from better file management, improved taskbar previews to faster and reliable performance.
You should have a complete understanding of following points before upgrading to Windows 7 from evaluation copy:

Why do I need to upgrade from evaluation copy to Windows 7?
What are the benefits of upgrading to Windows 7?
What issues can occur during the process of upgradation?

Why do I need to upgrade from evaluation copy to Windows 7?
Windows 7 evaluation copy is limited time software and offers an opportunity for users to try the operating system before purchasing the full version. The evaluation copy is valid for certain period of time and starts giving alerts and notifications to upgrade to the licensed version as soon as it approaches its validity expiration date. In order to continue enjoying all the advantages and benefits offered by Windows 7, you need to upgrade from evaluation copy.

What are the benefits of upgrading to Windows 7?
Windows 7 is faster and more compatible with all hardware and software components. The operating system features advanced management and deployment tools and allows you to find and store data quickly and easily. Windows 7 takes lesser time to startup, shutdown, sleep and resume from standby. It provides user-level file and folder encryption, allowing the user to secure their confidential information, such as credit card numbers or employee information.

What issues can occur during the process of upgradation?
When you attempt to install the upgrade version of Windows 7, it checks whether the presently installed version is a pre-released copy or not. To install the upgrade version of Windows 7, you need to have a qualifying Windows operating system installed on your computer and genuine license should be activated. You are required to boot to the qualifying Windows desktop and insert Windows 7 Upgrade disc in the DVD drive to complete the upgradation process.

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* Comprehensive support for resolving all issues and errors that occur while upgrading to Windows 7
* Diagnosis & repair of your hardware issues
* Troubleshoot software errors
* Update drivers and security to protect against online threats
* Connect to internet, devices and peripherals
* Optimize your computer¹s speed and performance

Choosing the Right Windows 7 Package for Your Needs

To make sure you get the most out of your experience when upgrading to the latest version of Windows, its necessary to take time to make sure you select the right Windows 7 package for you. The three main packages including Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate all offer a varying range of functionality and finding out which will best suit your personal needs will require a little research. While the different Windows 7 packages are each designed for specific users, some business environments or home users will find it beneficial to take advantage of a package with more functionality than the one recommended to them by Microsoft.

Here are a few of the key features included in the different packages that you might be able to benefit from. Comparing these features and functions will help you to decide on the right Windows 7 Package:

Windows 7 Home Premium
Windows 7 Professional
Windows 7 Ultimate

Windows 7 Home Premium
For the majority of users Windows 7 Home Premium will be sufficient. However, there are certain features not included in this package that you, as a home user, may want to benefit from. For instance, the ability to take advantage of the built-in automatic backup feature in Windows 7 Professional is something that may want to consider. There are also many average home users that will want to utilize the Professional package’s Windows XP Mode, which will provide added compatibility for Windows XP applications.

Windows 7 Professional
The Windows 7 Professional Package is typically recommended to small business and corporate environments, but as stated earlier, home users may want to consider this package as well. Added features in this version include the Domain Join function that allows you to easily and securely connect to company networks, and the full-system Backup and Restore feature for backing up to a business or home network. The BitLocker feature is also included in this version, which helps to protect sensitive data stored on your PCs, hard drives, and networks.

Windows 7 Ultimate
There are not many average users that will be able to benefit from the Windows 7 Ultimate version. However, added version in this Windows 7 package include the BitLocker feature, which helps to protect sensitive data stored on your PCs, hard drives, and networks, as well as the ability to work in 35 languages. Of course this package also includes everything that is included in both the Windows 7 Home Premium and Professional packages.

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* Comprehensive support for Windows 7 Package
* Diagnosis & repair of your hardware issues
* Troubleshoot software errors
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The Eee PC running a 1.6 GHz Intel Atom processor and 1GB of RAM handles the new Windows 7 pretty well, just as it ran Vista. We still had a problem getting a few of the Eee PC drivers to work with the system, but for the most part we were able to get all of the features to work using the XP drivers provided by ASUS. It takes just 58 seconds to boot Windows 7. Of course, it has actually taken a minute for some systems to boot XP. However, the Eee PC 1000H boots in only 40 seconds with its default operating system.

With Windows 7, network problem has also been resolved with improved Network Manager. The users faced issue in connecting to a wireless network in the earlier versions of the Windows OS. Things are easier in Windows 7. Presence of jumplist has simplified selecting the network icon in the System Tray to check for network availability. Induction of HomeGroup has helped a lot in sharing media and video files both at home and at business.

According to a Microsoft’s employee, Windows 7 Lite version will run on 1GB of memory and 16GB of (solid-state drive) storage. Higher-end Netbooks will have a 160GB hard disk drive, as per Microsoft “guidance.” Apart from the wireless connection manager, things are pretty smooth as far as performance is concerned. Microsoft will be running some benchmarks later with Windows 7 Lite. But the experience with Eee PC 1000H is very calm for user. It makes chatting on Skype, writing a post in Wordpress, editing pictures in GIMP, and uploading video files using Filezilla very easy.

Graphic performance has also become smooth for video playback on Hulu.com. But if downloaded to 720p high-definition, video is played back with a number of pauses. Additionally, video call over Skype had a problem sending and receiving video at the same time. Doing one or the other was fine, but not both at the same time. Hope Windows 7 Lite will come over these problems.

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Thus you should make sure whether your desktop or laptop PC is capable of running Windows 7. If it’s already running Vista with acceptable performance, then the answer is “Yes.” 1 GHz or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor; 16 GB available disk space (32-bit)/20 GB (64-bit); for the download version, an additional 3 GB is required; 1 GB RAM (32-bit)/2 GB RAM (64-bit) graphic card of DirectX 9 graphics processor with WDDM 1.0 or later driver.

There are different editions of Windows 7 – Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate. You must decide which one is suitable for you. For most people, Home Premium will make more sense. If your company decides to upgrade to Windows 7, go for  Professional edition that supports domain joining, network backup, and XP emulation. Ultimate includes everything included in Home and Professional  editions, apart from BitLocker encryption.

The main thing to consider here is that you have to do a custom installation – without the ability to carry your apps along. You can move from particular Vista to corresponding Windows 7 only, say from Vista Home Premium to Windows 7 Professional. The exception is Windows 7 Ultimate, which will let you perform an in-place upgrade from any level of Vista – as long as you don’t change whether you’re using the 32- or 64-bit version.

Also, compare the prices and special offers as several manufacturing companies are providing some good upgrade options for free, such as those for students and family packs. And, if you’re installing Windows 7 on a machine you’ve freshly built, you can pay less for OEM versions that don’t include all the packaging and support. The student upgrade license is just $29.99, and PC part suppliers are offering the OEM versions at steep discounts as well.

Select from 64-bit or 32-bit operating system. Any computer manufactured in the last few years will probably have a 64-bit capable CPU. The rule of thumb is that if you have, or intend to install, more than 3GB of memory on your PC, you need 64-bit Windows. And don’t worry about your old 32-bit programs – compatibility features inside Windows allow most of these to run in the 64-bit OS, the exceptions generally being antivirus software and hardware drivers. One significant hold-back, however, is Adobe’s Flash. If you run the 64-bit version of Internet Explorer that comes with Windows 7, you won’t be able to view web sites that use Flash. But there’s an easy fix – Run 32-bit IE for those sites until Adobe gets with the program. Both 32- and 64-bit installation discs come in the Windows 7 box, so you only have to specify which one you want if you’re downloading the code. In short, my recommendation is that if your system can run 64-bit software, go for it. You’ll be using your CPU and memory more efficiently, and you’ll be future-proofed for upcoming 64-bit.

Before Installing Windows 7, one most important thing is that don’t forget to backup your data. If you have some special features in email client and browser, you can import those features to the latest version of Windows 7 system.

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Windows7 requirement can be summarized as follows:

1 GHz or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor; 16 GB available disk space (32-bit) / 20 GB (64-bit); for the download version, an additional 3 GB is required; 1 GB RAM (32-bit) / 2 GB RAM (64-bit) graphic card of DirectX 9 graphics processor with WDDM 1.0 or later driver.

The latest Windows 7  has been designed to fix some problems automatically in a fast and better way. Hence, Windows 7 requirement is demanding as per the hardware configuration is concerned. The compatibility mode is also a good feature for software and programs that are not compatible with Windows 7. Windows7 Requirements are basic for any  version.

Now, if you want to avail some additional benefits like Windows Media Center and Watch TV shows for free  with Internet TV  then you need specific TV Tuner Card. And, if you want to get advantage of Windows XP mode  with Windows 7, then Microsoft is recommending a PC with a minimum of 2GB of memory and 15 GB of additional disk space. “In addition, Windows Virtual PC requires a PC with Intel-VT or AMD-V enabled in the CPU, as it takes benefits of the latest advancements in hardware virtualization. To prevent data from loss, theft, or hackers, you can make use of Bitlocker for which you need Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2 . BitLocker To Go—a new feature of Windows 7 — gives the lockdown treatment to easily-misplaced portable storage devices requires USB flash drives and external hard drives. Windows7 Requirement is vast for using home group as it requires all the equipment for sharing data and files like adaptor printer and scanner etc.

Internet Explorer still needs to be customized to get it to perform smoothly like that of Mozilla Firefox. Apart from a large memory, all you need is some enhanced programs such as smart RAM and smart defragmentor offered by Windows Advance System Care to keep the performance at it’s optimum. Thus, Windows7 requirement  may  differ from person to person according to usage.

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Pirates have gathered tools to erase and disable Windows Activation Technologies (WAT) in Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 taking care of other details. A new activation crack method has been unfolded and put to work to bypass Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 activation: remove and disable Windows Activation Technologies. The issue in discussion is about works by bypassing activation altogether, and therefore it does not need a product key. By deploying various means like blocking, preventing, removing, and disabling access to and loading of all activation and licensing related Windows system files, slui.exe will not start, resulting in the perpetual discontinuance of Windows activation.

And the buck does not stop here, disabling WAT is not end of the road. After the 30-day evaluation period culminates, Windows 7 will still start troubling the user to activate the operating system, the wallpaper will be set to black, and a watermark which reveals that the copy of ‘Windows is not genuine’ will be located in the bottom right-hand corner. The operating system can be continued using for a long time, but the side-effects can be disturbing, so pirates have enabled tools to clean these up.

A lot of the tools support all Windows 7 Edition (32-bit and 64-bit) and Windows Server 2008 R2. With the added bonus of removing and disabling WAT from the Windows system, the tools clean up the side-effects by stopping relevant services and bridging certain DLL files. During the time when Windows Vista was launched , pirates also made an attempt to perenially bypass Windows Vista activation by halting the activation grace period countdown timer. Microsoft put a hold on all these with updates to the operating system. The same is expected this time around since this method involves patching a lot of system files, especially with the next WAT update or with Service Pack 1 for Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2.

The most dependable method to bypass Windows product activation is still the utilization of BIOS enabled tools to trick the operating system into making a judgment that it has been preloaded onto an OEM system. This is done either via software tools or through direct modification of a motherboard’s BIOS. Utilizing BIOS loaders and OEM BIOS mods for Windows 7 have long been practiced by pirates for months, it was even longer for Vista. As a matter of fact, in April 2007, Microsoft publicly declared that it was analyzing BIOS hacks that were being utilixed to bypass Windows Vista product activation . However, until now many of the BIOS methods still work.

Windows 7 Starter

This edition is built for basic computing tasks such as, e-mailing, net surfing, etc. You won’t get Windows 7 at the retail stores as it will only come pre-installed with new notebook computers globally.

Windows 7 Home Basic

This version is not as limited as the starter edition but it will be available only in developing countries including India, China, Philippines, etc with new computers. Then you have the Windows 7 Enterprise edition which is almost similar to Windows 7 Ultimate for businesses that go for volume licensing.

None of the above mentioned Windows 7 editions will be available for general retail in boxed offerings. Your choice is therefore simplified to the remaining three editions – Windows 7 Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate.

The different editions of Windows 7 are built such that each edition has all the features of the previous editions plus something extra that makes that edition different. Also, users can use the Anytime Upgrade feature to get a serial key online and upgrade your existing Windows 7 to a more advanced edition. To guide you about which edition of Windows 7 you should buy, here’s a quick descriptions of features that are available in each of the Windows 7 versions.

Windows 7 Home Premium

This edition is similar to  XP Home and Vista Home Premium. It is suitable for home users worldwide with a very pleasing Aero glass user interface. Windows 7 Home Premium edition has Windows Media Center to help you play a wide variety of multimedia formats including DVD and there’s a default DVD maker to create DVD movies or for burning files and disk images to CD, DVD, and Bluray disks directly from Explorer.

Windows 7 Professional

This edition offers all the features of Windows 7 Home Premium, and then adds some advanced networking features. For example, the Location Aware Printing feature allows you to choose different default printers for different networks and is useful for people who use the same laptop in multiple locations for example, at home and in office.

Windows 7 Ultimate

It has all the features of Windows 7 Home Premium and Professional, plus some additional enterprise and security related features. Ultimate also lets you use multiple languages on the same system. With Windows 7 Ultimate, you get the ability to boot from a virtual hard drive and the new BitLocker-to go feature allows you to encrypt files on your computer as well as removable disks like that USB Pen drive.

The Enterprise

This version include centric features like Federated Search, for searching across network drives, Direct Access, for accessing corporate e-mail servers, shared folders, or intranet web sites securely without connecting to a VPN, Branch Cache, it caches local copies of content from web and file servers to improve performance and a system that lets you run UNIX applications on Windows.

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Windows 7 Starter

Windows 7 Starter combines the latest in authenticity and compatibility of Windows. The features of this edition follow:

1. Netbook is simple to use with Jump Lists, Pin, Snap, and Windows Search.
2. Connecting to printers and devices is simpler than ever.
3. It supports latest hardware and software.
4. Can join home networks with other PCs running Windows 7.
5. Internet Explorer 8 enhances the safety of web browsing.
6. Connecting to wireless networks is fast and easy.

Windows 7 Home Premium

It is easy to create a home network and share all your favorite photos, videos, and music with Windows 7 Home Premium. Get the best entertainment experience with Windows 7 Home Premium. The features of this edition follow:

1. Enhance your navigation experience with features like Shake, Jump List and Snap.
2. Change the theme and taskbar programs to customize windows the way you want.
3. Easy to set up a home network and connecting to printers and devices.
4. Supports latest hardware and software.
5. Can make your PC sleep and resume quicker.
6. Take complete privilege of 64-bit PC hardware and memory.
7. Connecting to wireless networks is fast and easy.
8. Windows Media Center allows you to watch, pause, rewind, and record TV.
9. Includes combined video and Dobly audio codecs.

Windows 7 Professional

It allows you to run several Windows XP productivity programs in Windows XP Mode and also recover data easily with automatic backups to your home or business network. It is easy to connect to company networks easily with Domain. With all the features of Windows Home Premium, it’s a great choice for both home and businesses. The features of this edition follow:

1. Enhance your navigation experience with features like Shake, Jump List and Snap.
2. Change the theme and taskbar programs to customize windows the way you want.
3. Easy to set up a home network and connecting to printers and devices.
4. Back up your complete system over a network.
5. Can make your PC sleep and resume quicker.
6. Take complete privilege of 64-bit PC hardware and memory.
7. Windows XP Mode provides you with the business flexibility.
8. Windows Media Center allows you to watch, pause, rewind, and record TV.
9. Includes combined video and Dobly audio codecs.

Windows 7 Ultimate

It is designed for the users who want to have all the features of all editions of Windows 7. It is most versatile and flexible of all. It combines impressive ease-of-use with the entertainment features of Home Premium and the business capabilities of Professional. It allows you to run Windows XP productivity programs in Windows XP Mode. You can encrypt your data with BitLocker and BitLocker To Go for added security. You can also work in 35 languages with Windows 7 Ultimate. The features of this edition follow:

1. Enhance your navigation experience with features like Shake, Jump List and Snap.
2. Change the theme and taskbar programs to customize windows the way you want.
3. Easy to set up a home network and connecting to printers and devices.
4. Back up your complete system over a network.
5. It help protect your data on your PC or portable storage device against loss or theft with BitLocker.
6. Can make your PC sleep and resume quicker.
7. Take complete privilege of 64-bit PC hardware and memory.
8. Windows XP Mode provides you with the business flexibility.
9. Switch between any of 35 languages.
10. Windows Media Center allows you to watch, pause, rewind, and record TV.
11. Includes combined video and Dobly audio codecs.

Thousands of products are enlisted in the support pipeline where the peripherals and the applications associated with the support will be scrutinized and checked and slowly, with that, with the required data, the testing is being carried out. There is also a provision for users to e-mail their product requests and thereafter look for a new gear which will have the logo: Compatible with Windows 7.

As for other users, like Windows XP or earlier versions, Microsoft has asked its users to get help from local computer service provider. The most common procedure would be to undertake a clean installation which means one will have to back up all current files and settings and  then reinstall them all over again.

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A look at fresh desktops and laptops available at retailers  will give one the option to see that there are some real options made for a user depending on the class of the system. Consumer systems are loaded with Windows 7 Home Premium (which is mostly of the 64-bit version), and business systems come loaded with Windows 7 Professional. Huge businesses come into a whole different section with both Microsoft and retailers like Dell, and these systems would come with Windows 7 Enterprise by default

For a small or medium businesses, Windows 7 Professional is largely the version best suited for them.

Windows 7 Professional do have some features that businesses need and cannot be found in Windows Home Premium . There is support for more system memory and dual physical CPUs, the caliber to fill a Windows domain, file encryption with EFS , the ability to deploy Windows XP-mode virtualization, and software policy inhibitions. However, it also misses out on some major features that small and medium businesses can benefit from.

Windows 7 Professional enables some data encryption with EFS, but it does not have the ability to shield the entire hard drive with encryption. Windows 7 Ultimate and Windows 7 Enterprise have the option of the BitLocker drive encryption which encrypts almost every bit of data on the drive.

Employees who are on roaming often have gigabytes of sensitive or secret information on their laptops which can be easily misplaced or stolen. BitLocker ensures secure protection to see that unauthorized users are not able to avail that data. BitLocker-to-Go also gives out similar data encryption for USB thumb drives and other portable data storage that can also be easily misplaced.

For those workers who are employed at home or for those who connect with the company network while traveling, are well accustomed to the VPN technology. The VPN follows its purpose for making a secure connection from the remote computer and the company network that is internal from all  across the Internet. However, it is a far cry from being the perfect solution.

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Firstly, for consumers, Microsoft has designed Windows 7 to be more dependable, more responsive, and to really simplify every day life. While for small to medium sized business, the new Windows 7 is the most remarkable operating system for work-related tasks. It doesn’t matter where one is stationed to work, whether it be from their company office, from home or simply anywhere. It also works the way you want enabling more work productivity and safer execution of work as well.

Windows 7 is also designed for  enterprises. It was structured to meet the increasing demands of the enterprise. It has the ability to produce productive work almost anywhere. It provides enhanced security and control to minimize  risk, and blends PC manageability to cut costs.

For an enterprise customer who is already running Windows 7, it gives the impression that the software is durable and brilliant.  It is easily perceived as the best operating system and is also an excellent one. Companies are migrating all their employees  at workplaces to Windows 7. Surely it is quicker, cuts effective costs, runs smoothly and has no issues.

The bulk of Microsoft’s partners of Windows 7 all around the world are just as excited at the opportunities Windows 7 will bring. And Microsoft does not disappoint by bringing out different versions of Windows 7 to cater to the different needs people have with their PC. Windows 7 Starter and Windows 7 Home Basic are the two versions which are suitably ideal for first time users and for those who would like to purchase a PC loaded with Windows 7 on a budget. Windows 7 Home Premium surely comes across as the best edition for consumers. Windows 7 Home Premium is the best option for gaming and entertainment experience on a PC. While Windows 7 Professional is the right choice for the small to medium sized business user. It has all the features embedded in it to cater to work-related tasks and also gives great media and entertainment features.

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The design of 32 or 64-bit refers to the memory address length that can be referenced by the processor. It also indicates the maximum memory that can be utilized. A recent trend has given much leeway to the 64-bit version, and in the past three years or so, all new PCs have the 64-bit hardware. But with the introduction of Vista, the trend had shifted to mass adoption of the 32-bit version because the Vista could not handle the 64-bit version partition when it came to running programs and accessories like printers and scanners.

All the applications cannot be made faster just by using 64-bit operating system because many of the software that are written and optimized today are for a 32-bit. You need to install a software which is specifically optimized for 64-bit processing to take the privileges of any improvement in speed.

The 32-bit software  is restricted to 4GB memory, but if you want to take the full privilege of the extra RAM, you need to have a 64-bit CPU, operating system and applications.

If you are using a very old software, then it will not run under a 64-bit operating system.

If you are working with 32-bit drivers then it will no longer work on Windows 7 64 bit. Now, you need to discard poorly supported hardware as it will no longer be usable.

When you will try to run some 32-bit applications on a 64-bit operating system, it would actually work slower. You will notice some degradation in the performance.

In a nutshell, it totally depends upon the user what he uses his computer for. If your CPU is 64-bit capable but you are using older hardware, then it is better to stay with a 32-bit version. But if you have the latest hardware and drivers, you should go for 64-bit operating system

The comparison and the choice is totally in the hands of the users and one cannot tell what exactly the user should do. However, they must take into account the elements of cost, compatibility and the current operating system running in their computer.

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Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 7, comes in six different versions with several interesting features. This articles brings out a list of features that are common in all the editions of Windows 7.

Windows Search: Windows Search uses the index whenever you use the search box on the Start menu – in the Search Home folder, in libraries, and in locations that are part of a homegroup.

Desktop Gadgets: Choose from default gadgets in Desktop Gadget Gallery; you can also download and install additional third-party gadgets.

Windows shell enhancements: Aero Snap, Jump Lists, and Windows Flip.

Power management: Users can edit default power schemes as well as create custom schemes.

Windows ReadyBoost: Support for multiple USB flash drives used as backup memory to improve performance.

Device Stage: A tool for managing and configuring user installed devices such as cameras, phones, and printers.

Sync Center: Manages synchronization with mobile devices.

Windows Easy Transfer: Transfer files and settings from an old computer to a new one.

Windows Speech Recognition: Enter and edit text, and issue voice commands using a microphone.

Ease of Access features: High-contrast themes, Ease of Access Center, Magnifier, Narrator, and On-Screen Keyboard.

Virtual hard drive: Create a new VHD; attach an existing VHD.

Internet Explorer 8: Default Internet browser for Windows 7.

Games Explorer with basic games: Default Windows 7 Games FreeCell, Hearts, Minesweeper, Purble Place, Solitaire, and Spider Solitaire.

Basic productivity applications: Windows 7  includes Calculator, Paint, Notepad, and WordPad.

Windows Fax and Scan: It helps you while scanning documents, sending and receiving faxes.

Windows PowerShell and Integrated Scripting Environment: Command-line shell and graphical host application for scripting administrative tasks.

XPS Document Writer and Viewer: Provides capability to create and view documents using XML Paper Specification.

Windows Update: Check automatic and manual updates for Windows, its a tool to download and install updates for other Microsoft products.

User Account Control: Also includes Protected Mode in Internet Explorer 8.

Action Center: It provides messages and updates about security and maintenance issues.

Windows Defender: Defend your PC against Anti-Spyware.

Windows Firewall: Blocks unsolicited inbound network connections; includes advanced security interface to manage inbound and outbound connections.

System Repair Disc/Window Recovery Environment: Provides ability to access troubleshooting/repair environment at startup without requiring original installation media.

Windows Backup: Perform manual or scheduled backups by file type or location, includes ability to create a system image.

Previous Versions: Ability to recover changed or deleted files from automatic or manual restore points and backups.

Parental Controls: Set time limits on computer usage, and block access to specific games and applications.

Windows Remote Assistance: It allows direct network connections between two Windows PCs for troubleshooting and repair.

Windows Media Player 12: Enjoy music and videos in all different formats.

DVD playback capability: Requires MPEG-2 decoder, which is included in premium editions but must be installed separately in Starter and Home Basic editions.

Windows Photo Viewer: Import photos from digital cameras, rotate photos, send them via e-mail, burn them to CD/DVD, or print them.

Photo slide shows: Basic features only, no transitions or other special effects:

Sound Recorder: Basic sound-recording capabilities.

Remote Desktop client: Connect via a network to a Remote Desktop host.

SMB network connections: Maximum of 20 simultaneous connections. Because each PC or device requires two Server Message Block (SMB) connections, 10 PCs or devices can be connected at once.

Ability to join a Homegroup: Share local resources and access shared resources on other Windows 7 machines that are part of the same Homegroup.

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The percentage of the users who think that Windows Vista is better is less. Therefore, most businesses skipped Vista and preferred to choose eight-year old XP. So, after holding off on a Windows upgrade, there is no doubt that most of them will be opting for Windows 7. Most of the users who have experimented with the beta version of Windows 7 are completely satisfied, and it appears that in its newest operating system Microsoft has tried to built on Windows Vista’s strengths and addressed most of its weaknesses.

But if you want to deploy Windows 7 in a right manner, address the following concerns to ensure a successful migration.

64-bit vs 32-bit OS

Firstly, before deploying Windows 7, you should consider if you can use existing hardware or there is a need to purchase a new PC. You should also keep in view the system requirements for Windows 7. For example, for 32 bit version, you require 2 GB of RAM, at least 1 GHz dual-core CPU and at least 16GB of installation space. On the other hand, for the 64-bit version of Windows 7, you require at least 20 GB of installation space. DirectX 9-compatible graphics processor or card with WDDM 1.0 or higher drivers should also be installed in your PC.

The 64-bit operating system offers improved security through hardware data execution prevention, kernal patch protection, and mandatory driver signing. But beware of the fact that some peripherals’ drivers and 16-bit applications do not work with 64-bit operating system. So, if you are opting for 64-bit Windows 7, it may require a change in the scenario of hardware or application environment. Also, some 32-bit applications may run slower on the 64-bit operating system.

Determine the version

Before selecting the version, you should determine which version of Windows 7 will be most suited and required by you for deployment. It is recommended to consider the version before you choose because it might not contain the features you thought.

Hardware and software compatibility issues

Before opting for Windows 7, make sure that you have tested your system, for any issues with hardware or software, by deploying it in a smaller environment. You can also attempt to run Microsoft’s Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor utility.

If you are not satisfied and want a more serious tool for your organization, you can give a try to Microsoft Assessment and Planning Toolkit (MAP) 4.0. MAP scans your system hardware and checks for compatibility.

Beware, if you have16-bit applications, they will not run in 64-bit edition of Windows 7. The applications can only run in the latest XP Mode virtual machine that is only available with the Professional, Ultimate and Enterprise editions of Windows 7. XP Mode is not only helpful in running 16-bit applications, but for any program that requires legacy application compatibility.

You should also give a try to Application Compatibility Toolkit (ACT) 5.5 which contains several tools that help you to determine which applications will comfortably function in Windows 7.

Licensing and activation

You must note that Microsoft has many types of licenses for Windows, and when upgrading you should not confuse the volume license with the agreements or software assurance programs.

Upgrading your PC to Windows 7

You must be aware that Windows XP cannot be upgraded in-place to Windows 7, so your applications and data cannot be migrated. Microsoft offers the User State Migration Toolkit (USMT) 4.0 that endorses two migration scenarios. One allows you to move the data off a PC before the installation of Windows 7, then moving the data afterwards. On the other hand, the second scenario works depending on the age of your current desktops which moves the files and settings to a new computer which can be called PC replacement. User State Migration Toolkit pulls the information from the hard drive, the registry, and other Windows data and restores it to the replaced system. Part of working with the USMT involves the use of the Windows Automated Installation Kit (AIK) for Windows 7.

Considering virtualized desktop deployments

One type of client-side virtualization is to install Windows 7 on a virtualized hard disk (VHD), which can be copied and deployed anywhere. Incremental VHD can also be created by you, so that you can have a core file that everyone uses and incremental VHDs that have the applications and other configurations for specific departments. The PC boots normal but opens Windows 7 from the VHD instead of the hard drive normal file system.

The use of VHD will degrade your PC’s performance and also prevent you from using the Windows Experience Index, as well as BitLocker on the disk where the VHD resides. (You can use BitLocker within the VHD, but not on the disk where the VHD resides).

Note : Microsoft’s Virtual PC or Virtual Server is needed to create the VHD, which can run only 32-bit version of Windows.

Another option of virtualization is the concept of VDI, where the operating system is hosted on a server in the data center.

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Problem:

This article is targeted at those users who have ordered for the Windows 7 and will be installing them soon after its launch next month.

Solution:

To install the Microsoft Windows 7, the first thing that one needs to keep in mind is to check if your current computer system can handle the new Windows 7. You will need a PC with these requirements;  GHz or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor,1 GB RAM (32-bit) / 2 GB RAM (64-bit),16 GB available disk space (32-bit) / 20 GB (64-bit) and axDirectX 9 graphics processor with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver  You will also have to check the compatibility with an upgrade advisor developed by Windows to make sure that the Windows 7 can run on your computer. You can check this out by going to the official Microsoft website at the link www.microsoft.com/windows/buy/offers/pre-order.aspx. Take a close look at this website and also check out what retailers are partners with Microsoft in offering special pre-order schemes. The Windows 7 Home Premium Upgrade is only $119.99 and the Windows 7 Professional Upgrade is only $199.99.

All the big names in retailing have collaborated with Microsoft to launch the Windows 7. Prominent among them are Best Buy, Wal-Mart and Amazon. You can go to their websites and pre-order Windows 7. An important tip here is to choose either Windows 7 Home Premium Upgrade or Windows 7 Professional Upgrade. The difference between the two is that Professional has automatic data backup and will run Windows XP software. Pre-order your product from the retailers and you will receive your products at the slated date next month.

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Problem:

Earlier versions lacked better organizational features resulting in varying degrees of mismanagement like cluttering of files on the desktop.

Solution:

There may be myriad of reasons to own a system installed with Windows 7.

1. Manage your desktop: With Windows 7, it’s awesome to work on desktop. There are new features called Aero Shake, Aero Peek, and Snap. You can try the new desktop slide show, which displays a rotating series of pictures. The task bar play a vital role in any operating system, so Microsoft has completely changed the task bar to help you work smarter, cut clutter, and get more done. Now you can stick your gadgets anywhere on the desktop that is not possible in Windows Vista. Personalize your desktop backgrounds, window colors, and sounds.

2. Record TV on PC: With this new feature you can watch, pause, rewind, and record your favorite video content. It’s really great and thanks to Microsoft for that.

3. Experience the better Internet browsing with IE 8: It has new features such as Web slices that allow you to access/search your data quickly.

4. Jump List: You can access your frequently used programs, songs, pictures and document. You can open this feature just by right-clicking a program icon on the Windows 7 taskbar. What you access in a Jump List depends entirely on the program. The Jump List for IE shows frequently-viewed websites. You can quickly access to commands for things like composing new e-mail messages or playing music.

5. Home Group: Now It very easy to share files and printers on a home network through this feature. Connect two or more PCs running Windows 7, and HomeGroup will automatically start sharing your music, pictures, video, and document libraries with others in network. Home Group is also secure and you can give password to share files and folders. This feature is available with all the editions of Windows7.

6. Snap: It a new feature that allows you to resize open windows in a new way, simply by dragging them to the edges of your screen.

7. Window Search: In Windows 7, the search is faster and easy. You just need to type into the Start menu search box and you will have a list of relevant documents, pictures and etc. Not only this it can also search any external storage device.

With Windows 7 you will have best experience on your PC. It rocks.

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Problem:

There are people hurrying and scurrying all over to get the best deal out of Windows 7. Pre-order schemes, shipping comfort etc. are being taken by retailers who have partnered with Microsoft.

Solution:

Windows 7 Upgrade can be quite a pinch on your budget and at these times of low economy growth, it could be an important factor in dampening the hopes of few in the otherwise remarkable product from Microsoft. This is why this article was brought about with a vision to get price breaks enabling you to save money on Windows 7.

Now, how do we get about with saving some money in Windows 7? Firstly, ask yourself a few questions. Do you need this upgrade? Will it help you in the long run? Are you ready to give up a valid Windows XP or Windows Vista license that you have had for a long time? The answer to most of these queries or at least half of which will go for an upgrade version, and save up to 50% This is a major saving as compared to other options.

Upgrading to Windows 7 can get expensive but there are ways to get price breaks. Another option is to optimize on cost savings by taking advantage of the limited time offer from Microsoft to save an additional 50% by getting this product before the date of its release. This is normally targeted at early adopters with a valid Windows XP or Windows Vista license. Now, to compare it with the prices in the market, the price of the pre-order is just $50which amounts to cost saving of 75% which users would be paying after its release.

Just in case, you missed out on the pre-order or you simply intended to just wait, one can still save money with an OEM version. These versions can be purchased for 50% off the full version. However, there are certain things to keep in mind while enabling this. Although it is a 100 % version, it does not come with technical support. Therefore, the license cannot be transferred to another computer. So, it is imperative to remember to install the machine on a modern machine. Keeping these things in mind will help you save up a lot. The Windows 7 is an awesome product and it will surely bring a lot of smiles back, once these cost savings plans are implemented and put to use because everyone would be able to purchase it.

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If there are reasons to consider migration to Windows 7, there are also factors for not considering it. A series of news, reviews and articles have poured in immediately after the release of Windows 7 RTM edition. One thing is for sure that the new operating system is all set to have a bigger market share than Windows Vista.

Although Windows 7 has a similar UI as Windows Vista, it has got many more features. Bundled ISO to CD burner is one of the interesting features of Windows 7 which enables users to write CDs from ISO images without any third party involvement. Improved taskbar, touch screen, speech recognition, and improved security features like BitLocker, and AppLocker make it attractive to the users.

But, not everyone will be able to take advantage of these features as there are certain system configuration requirements that you must check before considering upgrade.

• 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor

• 512 MB of system memory

• 20 GB hard drive with at least 15 GB of available space

• Support for DirectX 9 graphics and 32 MB of graphics memory

• DVD-ROM drive

• Audio Output

These specifications may vary with different  Windows 7 Edition. If your PC does not match these specifications, do not try an upgrade.

In case, you are confused and could not make a decision, you can take help of iYogi, which is a tech support company. Depending on your requirements, experts can guide you regarding which edition to buy, whether migration will be favorable for you or you should drop the idea. Call +800 237 3901.

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Also called Moro, this software will provide users with free security solution against viruses, spyware and other unwanted programs. The software has been in beta testing for the past few months and now it has been released for the users to download.

Microsoft Security Essentials is not only compatible with Windows 7, but also with the earlier versions including Windows XP (both SP2 and SP3) and Windows Vista. Microsoft also proclaimed that this security solution can be enjoyed by a user in eight different languages, in a sequence of 19 countries.

The Microsoft Security Essential has been designed in such a manner that it will not hamper the computer’s performance and will run in the background without disturbing the user. The company has also assured that opening documents or browser windows will smoothly run even on the older PC that have less CPU power and memory.

The statement was released by the company which states that Microsoft Security Essentials’ real time protection will prevent PCs from becoming infected, and this is the first security product released by the Microsoft that will make use of the company’s new Dynamic Signature service, which will protect them from the latest virus definitions.

The tool is designed to replace Windows Live OneCare and will act as a superset of Windows Defender. The users who cannot afford to pay for a paid security solution, this will prove to be great security solution. The company also emphasized that this solution is specially designed for the end users, and for the business users, Forefront Client Security would be available.

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As per the data from web metrics firm Net Applications, Windows Vista reported a 0.3 percentage decline in its market share in January 2008. However, during September the fall is reported to be from 0.2 percentage point to 18.6%. Meanwhile, Windows 7 has registered its biggest one month gain. The operating system has set the record by capturing 1.5% of all computers connected to the Internet, meaning about one in every 67 personal computers is already running Microsoft Windows 7.

According to Net Application findings, Windows XP has also reported a fall in its market share. Over the last two years, Windows XP loss is also about half the monthly average. Net Application also said that Windows total share stood at 92.8%, far ahead of Apple Mac OS X.

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A famous analyst at market researcher IDC proclaims that there is a new reality in laptop pricing and it is harder to sell anything over $800. He also said that the selling price of notebooks is declining below desktops in retail.

HP, the world’s largest PC supplier, will begin selling ProBook from October 22 for $699. It’s a 13-inch ProBook 5310m that is about 0.9 inches thin, less than four pounds, and clothed in an aluminum display enclosure and a magnesium alloy bottom case with an Intel Celeron dual-core processor and $899 with Intel Core 2 Duo chip. Both would be available with Windows 7 operating system.

The 4-pound HP Pavilion dm3 starts at $549 and would range up to $700 in price for a memory and hard drive configuration. Even the Apple $999 MacBook is now seems to be affordable. Toshiba has also drastically slashed the prices of its ultraportable laptops

Dell is offering prices in two directions as both inexpensive and pricey executive laptops are available. The company offers inexpensive laptops such as the $449 Dell Inspiron 14 replete with a 14-inch screen, Intel Dual Core Pentium, optical drive, 2GB of memory, and a 160GB hard disk drive. The inexpensive form by Dell creates considerable weight to the downward price pressure on laptops.

Microsoft is believed to be offering a special unknown version of its upcoming operating system Windows 7 for netbooks that is more functional with enhanced set of features.

The move comes as the starter edition of Windows 7 is not workable with some features of netbooks.

Windows 7 for netbooks will have an interesting set of features, including a version of the netbook-oriented operating system with most of the regular tools of the OS kept intact.

The latest OS is likely to draw heavily on Windows 7 Starter Edition, which is already being tailor-made for application in “low cost small notebook PCs”. The new software, which will allow users to change the default wallpaper, will axe the Aero Glass interface. However, Microsoft is set to drop its planned three-application restriction for the Starter Edition.

The new, unnamed operating system variant would allow netbooks to be more functional than they are with Starter Edition or other versions. It is believed that Intel and netbook manufacturers are partially responsible for Microsoft decision. The decision might be an outcome of apprehension of netbook producers choosing Linux over expensive Windows versions.

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Under the program, designated PCs pre-installed with premium versions of Windows Vista will qualify for licenses of the equivalent Windows 7 product. Starting June 26th, any customer who purchases a PC from a participating computer maker or retailer with Windows Vista Home Premium, Business or Ultimate will also receive an upgrade to the corresponding version of Windows 7 at a little or no cost.

Windows 7 licenses will be made available to the users at no charge from the computer manufacturers, provided some manufacturers were warned that they would require to bear a very small amount of fee to cover the cost of shipping the disc.

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The company will provide its customers the facility to meet their basic computing needs while protecting their investments. Customers purchasing a PC with particular features, determined by HP, will be eligible to participate in this benefit program.

The scheme offers qualifying PCs a free upgrade to Windows 7 operating system when it will be launched this month. As per the company policy, the qualifying customers will receive the Windows 7 upgrade and an upgrade utility disk along with a step by step guide for installation purpose.

The company has provided a website for its customers, where they can check for the upgrade eligibility, registration information, and getting answers about their PC and current operating system. The website is:www.hp.com/go/windows7upgrade.

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The unmatchable partnership is the result of a joint venture between Lenovo and Microsoft which will prove to be highly useful to the users.

This certification focuses on features, tools and optimization that will enhance the system performance and will elevate the computing experience of the user especially of small-business customers by enhancing their experience with Windows 7 operating system.

The PC maker said that the users can hope for the advanced performance tuning that will allow them to start and shutdown their computer faster than non-optimized PC. It will offer intense multimedia capabilities and its audio and visual capabilities are made with breakthrough technology which includes high-definition graphics, DirectX 10 and improved digital audio.

Lenovo also said that the users who are into animation will be benefited by using Windows 7 advanced graphic features such as Aero Peek and Aero Flip. The OneKey rescue system 7.0 and Lenovo rescue system 3.0 on these PCs will allow the user to backup and recover the data two times faster than the earlier versions.

The user can easily perform antivirus scan just with a click and its improved system repair function will quickly repair the critical files and restore personal data. Its ThinkPadX200 Tablet PC and T400s are designed for business users. To make navigation easier the machines are furnished with Lenovo ThinkVantage Technology tool. Its ThinkPad also includes a two-megapixel light-adaptive camera and an advanced digital array microphone for noise and echo cancellation.

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Windows 7 OEM Professional and Ultimate licenses will be priced at $134.99 and $174.99, respectively.

The move comes after Microsoft declared its Default Windows 7 Pricing, which is lower than the prices of the previous Windows edition.

The software giant also offered a pre-order program which sold Home Premium upgrade licenses for only $49.99, less than normal price of $119.99. It said that the company would be offering a single Home Premium or Professional license to college students for just $29.99, nearly the same price as Apple Snow Leopard OS.

Microsoft has offered OEM licenses for computer builders to upgrade to the latest version of Windows.

Those aspiring to take the OEM must consider a few things. At First, the install will wipe out any data on your hard drive, unlike the Upgrade edition, so it is important to back up your data. Moreover, you are not allowed to transfer its license from one machine to another. There is no support available for OEM licenses, so in case of trouble you need to count on Internet resources.

As compared to Windows Vista OEM, Windows 7 OEM prices are ever-so-slightly cheaper, with Home Premium being identical to Windows Vista, and the Professional and Ultimate editions coming in at $5 cheaper than their Windows Vista counterparts.

Newegg says that it is currently taking pre-orders on the OS. The pre-order program will expire on October 20, two days before the official launch of Windows 7.

For students, the discount program remains the cheapest option. The expired pre-order program was the second cheapest option, and now a third option – an OEM edition – provides a slightly more expensive alternative to those who missed the pre-order and can’t get a student discount.

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If you have a computer that is pre-installed with Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Business, or Windows Vista Ultimate, you may be eligible to upgrade to a corresponding edition of Windows 7.

This upgrade option allows end users to get the appropriate Windows 7 edition at a minimum cost or no additional cost if the end user meets program qualifications. Consumers can contact their computer manufacturers directly in order to get complete details on this program.

Note: The Upgrade is not available for the following editions:

• Windows Vista Starter Edition
• Microsoft Windows Vista Home Basic
• Windows XP (all editions)

Different upgrade media will be required by different platforms (32-bit or 64-bit). The Windows Vista product can only be upgraded to the associated edition of Windows 7. Example: Windows Vista Business edition can only be upgraded to Windows 7 Business edition.

A language version of the qualifying Windows Vista product can only be upgraded to the same language version of the Windows 7 upgrade software.

Upgrading:

To perform an upgrade, you need to insert the Windows 7 Installation disc in DVD-ROM while running Windows Vista and choose upgrade option. The setup will then upgrade Windows Vista to Windows 7 without losing personal data. It will also move over all your user accounts and personal settings that can be transferred to Windows 7. There are many risks in doing this, such as application incompatibilities, issues with moving files and registry entries. It is still important to backup crucial files that you cannot replace if something should happen.

Here are the Microsoft minimum hardware recommendations for running Windows 7:

• 1 GHz 32-bit or 64-bit processor
• 1 GB of system memory
• 16 GB of available disk space
• Support for DirectX 9 graphics with 128 MB memory
• DVD-R/W Drive
• Internet access

Note: Other features of Windows 7 may require advanced or additional hardware.

A quick analysis will make things a lot easier. If you have a PC which has been used for less than 5 years then an upgrade will simply do the trick for you. According to Microsoft, the Windows 7 will run on a 1GHz processer, 16GB of disk space, and 1GB of RAM.

But if you seriously plan to run the operating system on these requirements then it is a good idea to run Microsoft Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor. It will check for any compatibility issues that you may have with your hardware and software settings. One important observation here is that Windows 7 runs on the same specs requirement with Windows Vista. So if you have Windows Vista already installed in your computer, then Windows 7 will run on the same or even better on the same hardware.

However, this tip is just to meet the basic requirements. If you want to enhance and milk on its features, then you should consider settling for a new hardware to avail services of software like multi-touch support which comes with Windows 7 and optimize its use. Other enhancements include the SSDs running on Windows 7. It is a unique feature which is only available on Windows 7.

For users of Professional and higher, the Windows XP mode is a brilliant feature again. For users who are more familiar with Windows XP, it enables users to run applications. It depends largely on Windows Virtual PC and has bigger memory and CPU requirements. It is important to compare the memory that a PC can handle when it comes to cost benefits. For anyone who uses more than 3GB memory, it makes more sense to get the 64-bit Windows. It will come handy in editing and manipulating HD images and running virtual machines. For office applications and web surfing, the 32-bit Windows would do just fine. The Windows Upgrade Advisor will relate the necessary changes for your CPU.

The cost for an upgrade will be anywhere at and around $200. That is surely a lot cheaper than the amount of money you will have to shell out to get a new laptop. It is a good steal considering you will be getting a new hardware with the Edition of Windows 7 of your choice with it. The Windows 7 Home Premium will come for $120. If you have a computer which meets the requirements and if you are still quite satisfied with its performance, then you should not hesitate to retain it and get an upgrade for Windows 7. It makes more sense and will be easy on your budget as well.

Windows 7 promises to improve upon Windows Vista in many ways. This author delves deep into its features and comes out with a compilation of the best the operating system has to offer.

1. The Taskbar in Windows 7 is not as crammed up like the one in Windows Vista. It can handle applications running or non-running with equal ease. It takes just one shot to show all of an application’s open window, and it displays all of these at once. The Taskbar Menus which are context-sensitive have the ability to enable you to start accomplishing features in your applications. And this task is completed before you even get to open them.

2. The annoyance of unwanted applications cropping up and frustrating you with spam and unnecessary messages will be a thing of the past. Its new controls disallow the System Tray from reeking of such unwanted applications and messages.

3. Its new file-format support enables programs such as Windows 7 Media Player 12.. If you particularly despise iTunes but prefer to stick to Apple online store for your music and videos then the Windows 7 will enable you to play unprotected audio and videos from the official Apple online store with no hassles.

4. It’s version of the unique Windows Vista Security Center can allow you to respond to system messages at your own will and time, and not with Windows popping up every time to interrupt your work, with its ability to queue up system messages and scheduling them. The rapid-fire prompts that clogged up and disrupted your work like the one in Windows Vista has also been taken care of. Their frequency and annoyance has also been minimized in Windows 7.

5. Folders located all over your hard drive can be packed up and driven into Libraries. They have been designed with a one-click access on the left hand side pane of the Windows Explorer to specify files and folders that you wish to locate for later use.

6. Microsoft has kept a close watch on the issue of saving space and storage and has devised a subtle way to run the Windows 7 with the same amount of CPU power and RAM that was used by Windows Vista and runs even better than it. It can even be run on a netbook.

7. The support for multi-touch input has not hit the roof but it provides decent groundwork to enable third-party developers to create and build their own software. Windows 7 sure does deserve some credit if these developers manage to pull off remarkable touch applications.

Well, this is not all of its features and it promises to deliver a lot more. But these are some of the best picks and also an attempt to present a quick insight into the Windows 7. Watch this space and keep on reading for more on the exquisite features of the Windows 7.

Problem:

The feature of handwriting recognition was included in Windows Vista and Windows XP also. But with Windows 7, it is more improved.

Solution:

Microsoft’s Latest operating system by Microsoft is being introduced with several new hardware features – including microprocessors and hard disk – to make the experience enjoyable.

The new software comes equipped with touch and handwriting recognition, support for virtual hard disks as well as improved performance on multi-core processors. Some of these features were absent in the earlier versions of Microsoft Operating Systems including Windows XP and Windows Vista.

Although, Windows XP included handwriting recognition, in the latest OS it has been improved upon so that you can benefit from the feature with the inclusion of some more languages into it. Microsoft is planning to include Norwegian, Swedish Finnish, Danish, Russian, and Polish in the new operating system. This feature is not new but has been improved so that some more people can capitalize on it. It is widely known that even Windows Vista handwriting recognition was available in only 12 languages – mostly American and European.

Microprocessors from AMD will not be supported by Windows 7 because Microsoft believes that they will not be able to deliver adequate performance as required by the OS. But it will support Intel microprocessors. For more output, you can use new processors that are due to be launched by Intel especially for Windows 7. The previous version of Windows OS including Windows Vista and Windows XP were capable to support AMD microprocessors also.

After the inscriptions of improved capability to support microprocessors and hard discs you will find your PC even more swift and smart. You will find it more compatible as it carries improved performance on multi-core processors.

Systems using multiple heterogeneous graphics cards from different vendors will also be supported by new Windows 7.. This is an all new feature of the product which were not available in earlier versions of Microsoft Windows OS.

The latest operating system comes with three editions, with common features like improved GUI and desktop navigation, Windows Search, Internet Explorer 8, Windows Media Center and HomeGroup (Windows 7-specific networking).

However, the software giant’s list leaves out some significant core features, including:

• 32-bit and 64-bit editions provided in retail/upgrade versions
• Improved network management for mixed Windows 7/Windows Vista/Windows XP
• Improved digital TV support
• Devices and Printers management interface
• Device Stage enhanced driver support for multifunction devices
• Improved wireless networking
• Windows Backup for both files and system image
• Improved audio and video codec support
• Windows Aero desktop (with supported graphics cards and drivers)

Home Premium, with image backup as a core feature as well as higher SKUs, is a “no second thoughts” choice for home or small office-home office users, who do not require the extra features of Professional or Ultimate editions.

The “Business” moniker has been dropped for the small-business edition of Windows 7 and the “Professional” label – used in previous generations of the operating system – has been retained.

Potential upgraders from Windows Home Premium to Windows Vista Business were forced to trade away Windows Media Center to get support for business networking and image backup. But, there are no such tradeoffs if you intend to move to Windows 7 Professional from Windows 7 Home Premium – Windows 7 Professional includes every Home Premium feature.

Additional attributes In Windows 7 Professional include:

• Domain network support
• Windows XP Mode
• Automatic backup supports network shares as well as local hard disks

Therefore, Professional edition is suitable for users who routinely shift between domain and workgroup networks, require support for Windows XP-compatible applications that just don’t run under Windows 7 and prefer to back up to a network share without using third-party backup programs.

Glance at Windows 7 Ultimate and you will find all the features of Windows 7 retail editions combined with features from Windows 7 Enterprise. But unlike its Windows Vista predecessor, it omits Windows 7 Ultimate Extras.

Ultimate towers over other editions with features including, support for BitLocker full-disk encryption and the ability to switch between languages on the fly.

Retooled BitLocker in Windows 7 can now encrypt external drives (including USB keys) allowing a user to transport data between home and office without being concerned about being mugged and winding up in the next data breach headline.

There are other editions of Windows 7, too. Windows 7 Starter, which will also be sold in developing countries, replaces Windows XP on netbooks. However, it drops image backup, Windows Aero, Windows Media Center, and 64-bit support.

Treading the path of Windows Vista, Windows 7 editions will be shipped into EU sans Internet Explorer in order to satisfy regulatory requirements.

We all know that the Windows Vista also had an Ultimate version. And true to its name, the Windows 7 Ultimate also has the ability to combine all these features along with added features from the Windows 7 Enterprise.

The Windows 7 Ultimate Extras have been scrapped off. And the advantage this edition has over the other two versions: Home Premium and Professional are that this edition has Support for BitLocker full-disk encryption. Another major exception of the Ultimate over the two editions is that, it has been built to switch between languages in no time.

Well it is pretty obvious that unless your work demands of you to work with multiple languages on the same PC, the option to switch languages can be of no use to you. However, the BitLocker is quite a steal and this might be the option that eventually holds your attention to this edition. Here’s why. The BitLocker can easily encrypt external drives, almost any drive including USB keys. This will enable you to transport data at will from your home and office without the trouble of having to worry about being mugged and probably winding up in the next data breach headline. If this doesn’t seem to impress you and you choose to not upgrade both the ends of a data-transport chain with Windows 7 Ultimate then, here’s another punch to get you off. The BitLocker also comes loaded with a secure BitLocker to Go feature that can enable Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP users with the proper authorization to procure BitLocker secure media in read only mode.

By and large, these features are pretty unique and can be enabled only by a Windows 7 Ultimate User. This will remain its USP, and sure enough it will find many buyers with these features it has harbored in it.

Problem:

Microsoft has done away with the tag of “Business” slang for it business edition that it used in its previous editions and replaced it with “Professional”. How to get the right version for you?

Solution:

Unlike Windows Vista Business, which required upgraders to do away with the Windows Media Center when one had to switch a system from Home Premium to Business, which was basically to get support for business networking and image setup, there are no such hard and fast rules in the Professional. Also the Home Premium feature is included in Windows 7 Professional. That also adds a lot of sheen to the Professional edition.

There are several upgrades available from Windows 7 Professionalto Home Premium but the major ones are Windows XP mode, automatic backup support networks shares as well as local hard disks and domain network. Surely this edition comes loaded with a lot of features. And to further enhance its viability, we will look at a few points which make the Pro stand out. So, why Pro? Here’s why you should get the version. With it one can easily and on a regular basis organize one’s action of moving between domain and workgroup networks. Moreover, it gives support for Windows XP. It is compatible with applications which don not run under Windows 7. If you prefer to back up to a network share sans the option of using third-party backup programs, then this is the right choice for you.

To sum it up, this edition is a good choice and with its power features, it is here and here to stay.

Problem:

Curious queries are doing the rounds. Which edition should I buy? Which edition can I optimize on the most? Which one is right for me? If these questions tend to keep on playing with your mind and you tend to get a little frustrated, read on.

Solution:

Microsoft has delved deep into all the features by comparing it with erstwhile Windows versions and promises to deliver the best it could come up with its latest operating system.

For starters, there will be three editions of the Windows 7 which will be sold at retail - Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate editions. There must be multiple queries arising in your mind on how to get a better insight into these three editions. There are some core features that bind all the three editions:

They come fully loaded with an improved GUI and desktop navigation.

They all have an in-built Windows Search stored in each of them

They use the Internet Explorer 8 web browser.

They also come equipped with the Windows Media Center

The Windows 7 specific networking is the HomeGroup.

These features should dab a little flavor of the products on you. However if you wish to go into a little in-depth analysis of the three editions individually and compare their features, to find out what are Microsoft imperatives to satiate EU regulators and on how deep a hole it will make in your pocket if you had to purchase it or to pre-order a Windows 7, you are advised to call iYogi to get a holistic review on all these three editions.