So far, Windows 7 has not attracted much criticism from anyone at all. For once, it seems like Windows did a good job providing an operating system that is a genuine improvement over Windows Vista, the much maligned and flawed 2007 operating system. If you’re using Vista or even Windows XP, you might be considering switching over. Should you? To help you decide, here are a few of Windows 7’s features that are new or have been improved over Vista’s initial implementation of them.
- Pin. This feature is quite simple; you can pin programs or files in the task bar, the start menu, or a “jump list”. Pinning originated with Windows Vista but there is limited to the start menu and doesn’t include documents. The pinning feature allows quick and easy access to your most important files and programs.
- Snap. Easily “snap” two windows side by side for easy comparison. You can also use the feature to quickly maximise and minimise your window if you want speedy access to what’s behind. You can also use the “peek” feature to look behind all open windows at your desktop without closing or minimising anything.
- Speedy start-up and shut down. Though Windows will never be quite as speedy as Linux, Windows 7 has made substantial improvements to its boot speed. The system will also recover faster from stand-by, reducing the lengthy wait times that Vista in particular is famous for. It’s been out since 2009 and so far there are no complaints about reduced speed; another change that Microsoft seems to have done right.
- Easy sharing. Windows 7 PCs can share files, music, photos, and even sufficiently up-to-date printers over a network. This feature unfortunately isn’t helpful if you already have a Windows Vista or XP PC hanging around on the network but if you choose to upgrade all of them, this is a fantastic cure to the prominent headache caused by Windows sharing.
- Fewer security alerts. Windows 7 has improved security but reduced the number of irritating security alerts which again featured heavily in Vista. Those security alerts weren’t necessary because almost all users are administrators – so Windows 7 keeps all the good parts of the security system while eliminating the annoying ones.
- Better search. Windows 7 now searches the entire system from just the start menu. Easily find documents, files and programs by typing just a few letters.
If you do choose to make the transition, remember to back up your PC beforehand. Even upgrades will sometimes destroy all of the files on your PC.
If your business chooses to upgrade all of its PCs, you may need some help. If you’re in London IT support is plentiful and can get to you in a hurry; more rural businesses should ensure that their IT team is on hand in case of any issues.