Exactly three years have passed since Vista was released, but that version never got to be more popular than predecessor XP. With Windows 7, it appears to be different.
It's not often a not-ready operating system gets so much praise that has been the case with Windows 7 under development. The enthusiasm is back, both from Microsoft and from the audience. Most predict that Windows 7 is going to be a success, and will give Microsoft a boost after a less fortunate Vista period.
Tempting? Of course. But even if the operating system seems to be solid, there are some things you should be aware of before you eventually replace XP or Vista with Windows 7
Here are some of the most important:
1. The user interface in Windows 7 is not very different from Windows Vista. If you have Windows Vista and are happy with the performance and user interface, you may want to think twice before going to the purchase of Windows 7
2. Although Windows 7 seems to be far more "finished" than Windows Vista was at release time, it almost always comes up undiscovered error the first time. Historically speaking, this means that if you are interested in having a most flawless system, it may be wise to wait until the first major service pack is in place (Service Pack 1).
3. It is tempting to choose a so called OEM version of Windows 7 if you shop the online store, as these are cheaper than the regular versions. Although the operating system is the same as a full version, is such a version tied to one PC. This means that the license does not follow the operating system, but the PC Windows is installed on.
4. Windows 7 is not compatible with all PCs and peripherals! Although the system is lower than for Vista, you may find that things do not work as they should, especially if you have a PC that starts to drag on year. A good indication you can get by looking for Vista drivers at the manufacturer. Are these, there are chances that they will work in Windows7
5. Not all programs work equally well in Windows 7 as in previous versions of Windows, even though most do. The much-talked XP mode allows to run old programs, but it is not always the best solution.
6. Download Windows 7 - or Windows Vista drivers for the network card in your PC before you begin installation. There are chances that Windows 7 already has these drivers, but for safety's sake you should have them in reserve, on a CD or memory plug. Then you are sure you can get online quickly after installation, in order to download any other drivers you may need.
7. No upgrade. To upgrade from Vista to Windows 7 is not only terribly time-consuming, error sources are also extremely numerous. The result is often a far worse user experience than by a so-called clean install. It is best to install Windows 7 on a blank hard disk or partition. It will save you a lot of worries.
8. Whether you choose to upgrade or perform a clean installation: Back up everything you want to take care of before you install Windows 7 All documents, photos, music, movies. The easiest way is to use an external hard drive for purpose.
9. You can not upgrade from Windows XP! Yes, you can purchase an upgrade license, but the only way to install Windows 7 on for XP users, is to take a clean installation. This means that you must enter all applications and user files after installation.
10. Remember that you must have the installation files available for all the applications you want to use in Windows 7 Everything must namely be reinstalled if you have followed the advice 7
