The Windows 7 Adventure

[#1]

Microsoft is getting ready to launch their newest operating system on October 22^nd. After the release of Windows Vista in January 2007, Microsoft went back to their development teams to re-work the operating system to meet the demands of its users. The result is Windows 7.

At first glance, Windows 7 looks a lot like Vista. It has a very similar look and feel as its predecessor. The differences become apparent when you begin to use the system. Microsoft has made several enhancements to the software based on comments from Vista users. Some of these enhancements include:

• Improved taskbar with full screen previews

• Jump Lists
• Desktop Enhancements
• Windows Search

• Internet Explorer 8

• Better device management

• HomeGroup

These are just some of the new features that you will experience when using Windows 7.

I have installed the stable beta version of the new operating system, and at first I thought that it was just a new version of Vista. It was only after I really started to use my computer that I realized the differences in the way my computer runs. My computer seems to run faster than ever before. I started using Internet Explorer 8 to surf the web and was quite impressed. The new web browser is fully integrated into the OS for maximum efficiency and usability.

As I continue using Windows 7, I will report back about my experiences.

Message Edited by Matthew-BBY on 07-01-2009 11:53 AM

[#2]

Great information, Matthew-BBY!  I have been beta testing Windows 7 for a few months and share your enthusiasm and anticipation.  In fact, this new operating system (OS) is heralded as an upgrade to Windows XP while incorporating a few of the better Vista options and themes.  Here are a few important Windows 7 features users should explore. 

I love the new Libraries feature for cataloging most everything including documents, music, pictures, and videos from multiple locations on my network. Imagine if Microsoft took the old Explorer, added a heap of tagging, a sprig of Networking, and some heavy search functionality and tossed it all in a blender - voilà!  File management this intuitive and flexible was worth learning; what a time saver! 

Jump Lists are easily understood when viewed as a liberated improvement over the "Recent Documents" and "Recent Programs" feature of previous Start menus. 

Businesses (and some gamers) worry about new OS releases in relation to legacy software and hardware.  Microsoft has addressed these concerns in  Windows 7 via the Windows XP Mode.  Businesses concerned about custom software obsolescence should plan ahead and obtain the Professional or Ultimate edition of Windows 7.  Both XP Mode and the required companion, Windows Virtual PC, are a free download.  Users who are not concerned with outdated or custom software but are sheepish about learning a new OS, or simply prefer the look of XP, can use the Windows Classic theme and therefore will not need XP Mode.  

Visit http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/products/system-requirements to see if your computer will qualify for Windows 7. Pre-ordering is now available online at BestBuy.com through July 11, 2009 (or until supplies last).