By Dave Hartsock for Dave’s Computer Tips
Windows 7 Versions and Upgrades
Unless you have been living under a rock for the past eighteen months you are probably aware that Microsoft has a hit with their newest Operating System, Windows 7. Windows 7 has been the topic of network news reports, slightly funny commercials, and general internet buzz! Many die hard XP users are considering upgrading, and buying a new computer almost certainly guarantees Windows 7. If you are looking to upgrade, or buy a new computer, you need to be aware that Windows 7 comes in both 64-bit and 32-bit, as well as 6 different versions. Should you buy a new PC? Full version, Upgrade, or OEM? Should you get Windows 7 32bit or 64bit? Should you upgrade? Can you upgrade? How much does it cost? Which version is right for You? What features are included in the different versions? How many Windows 7 versions are there? Is Windows 7 stable?
WOW! You sure do have a lot of questions! Let’s look at each question and we’ll start with the last one.
Is Windows 7 stable?
Yes! Windows 7 is rock solid! I’ve been running Windows 7 since the RC (Release Candidate), and installed the final shipping version on October 22, 2009 with not one hitch related to Windows 7. The only issue I’ve encountered was with a fingerprint reader driver, whose manufacturer hasn’t released proper Windows 7 drivers. I’ve found a working driver and everything has been smooth sailing! I will go out on a limb and say that Windows 7 is Microsoft’s best operating system ever!
What versions of Windows 7 are available?
Windows 7 is available in 6 different versions – Windows 7 Starter, Windows 7 Home Basic, Windows 7 Home Premium, Windows 7 Professional, Windows 7 Ultimate, and Windows 7 Enterprise. Of these you, as a consumer, will only have contact with four. Windows 7 Basic should only be seen in ’emerging markets’ and Windows 7 Enterprise is only available to businesses, though it’s features are identical to Windows 7 Ultimate. Of the remaining 4 versions only Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate are available for sale to the public. Windows 7 Starter may only be purchased and installed by OEM’s (HP, Dell, etc). I know it is a tad bit confusing. I’ve created a chart below showing which features are available in each consumer version of Windows 7 along with the cost associated with the various purchases options.
Which Windows 7 version is right for you and what is the cost?
This excerpt is shared with permission from davescomputertips.com.
