Windows 7 - Is it worth it?
What are the new features? Is it compatible?
Windows 7 is generally accepted as a significant improvement over Vista. But, before you upgrade, check the following items and/or utilize Microsoft's free Upgrade Advisor tool to make sure your machine and current software applications are compatible so you don't end up spending a lot more than you bargained for.
• Make sure your applications and hardware are compatible with Windows 7 using the upgrade advisor.
• Be cognizant of which of the three available versions of Windows 7 you need.
• Make sure you have enough computer memory to run Vista, generally 4 GB is recommended.
• Make sure you have enough hard drive space to load Windows 7, minimum is 15 GB.
You can find out how much memory is installed in you computer by opening "My Computer" and clicking "View system information." Under the General tab, the computer should display approximately "4 GB of RAM" ideally. Additionally, your computer should have at least 15 GB of additional free space on the hard drive. To check this, again go to "My Computer" and right-click on the C:\ drive and select "Properties." The amount of "Free space" should be at least 15 GB.
You can download a free copy of Windows 7 upgrade advisor here.
Next, select from the three available versions of Windows 7: Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate
Windows 7 Home Premium retails for about $120 and contains improved networking capability over previous "Home" versions of Microsoft's operating system. It has features such as record, rewind television programs, improved file and printer sharing capability for home networks and improved desktop navigation. It also includes file and system backup and restore. This version is great for most household users and a significant improvement over both Vista and Windows XP.
Windows 7 Professional retails for about $200 and includes Windows XP mode for users who like the XP navigation and have programs that are compatible with Windows XP. It is also the necessary version for joining to domain networks and allows system and file backup to remote machines.
Windows 7 Ultimate retails for about $220 and provides enhanced file encryption with BiltLocker, and allows you to choose from over 35 languages.
If you would like Geeks On Call to help provide upgrade support, feel free to book an appointment via our live chat.