Windows 7 launches – What to know before buying
It took its time in finally arriving but it’s now here at last. Windows 7 went on general sale yesterday around the world. In many ways, the true test for Microsoft’s new operating system now begins. Beta testing is fine but it cannot ever hope to compete with millions of average everyday PC users installing and using the OS on their machines.
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer officially launched Windows 7 at an event in New York. Vista’s time is over (as is XP’s hopefully), and Windows 7 is now the future for all Windows-based computers.
Windows 7 comes in six different flavors, from the Starter Edition, through Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, Ultimate, and Enterprise. Most of us will only come into contact with Basic or Premium however, with the others more niche products.
Consumers who want to get their hands on Windows 7 can either buy a new PC with it pre-installed or buy an upgrade or full copy from retail stores both online or off. The prices being asked vary considerably between editions and retailers, so a little shopping around is definitely recommended.
There is also the option to buy a PC with Vista installed and claim a free upgrade. The promotion differs between PC manufacturers but generally applies to machines bought until Jan. 31, 2010, if indeed you can find a retailer selling a Vista-based machine until that date. The “free” upgrade claim usually means paying for shipping and handling, but the OS itself is indeed free.
There is also the Windows 7 Family Pack, which allows three PCs to be upgraded for a much-reduced price.
If you’re planning to upgrade rather than buy a new PC with Windows 7 pre-installed then you need to know whether your machine can be upgraded or whether it will require a clean install. You can check using Microsoft’s compatibility tools or work your way through the upgrade chart released a few months ago.
Finally, assuming you’ve taken the plunge and bought Windows 7, back up everything before installing. And make sure you update the OS as soon as you can. It may be new but Microsoft has already released several patches.
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