What are the new features?  Is it compatible? 

Windows 7 is generally accepted as a significant improvement over Vista. But, before you upgrade, check to make sure your environment and hardware are compatible and can support the new Operating System.  Otherwise, you could end up spending a lot more than you initially bargained for.  For example, many older versions of applications such as QuickBooks are NOT compatible with Windows 7.  You can do yourself a favor by using the free tool provided by Microsoft below to find out which applications you would need to upgrade (if possible) before making the leap to Windows 7.

• Verify your applications and hardware are compatible with Windows 7 using the upgrade advisor (free link below).
• Check that your PC has sufficient computer memory to run Windows 7, generally 4 GB. 
• Make sure you have sufficient FREE hard drive space, minimum is 15 GB.

To check hardware yourself - Find the Start tab and open "My Computer," then click "View system information."  Under the General tab, the computer should have "4 GB of RAM".  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.

If you do decide to make the leap, here is a brief tutorial on the prices and features of the three available flavors 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.