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Windows 7 Released

The latest windows software, Windows 7 from Microsoft has just been released. You have probably come across Windows 7 advertising on TV, in newspapers or online.

So what's it all about?

Windows 7

This is the last in a long line of Microsoft 'Operating Systems'. An operating system is the software that runs your computer. It controls all your devices connected to your computer such as printers, scanners and camera and allows them to interact with your programs. It also stores your documents, photos and emails for you and produces the desktop and mouse pointer we are all familiar with.

Windows 7 Features

Windows 7 introduces a number of new features to your computer including easier navigation on your desktop, simplified sharing of network files and resources such as printers, simpler file storage and much, much more.

It is also faster and more stable than the previous Windows Vista and more compatible with older programs and devices.

There are 6 different editions of Windows 7 but only 3 main versions are available through most retailers. These are:
Home Premium - Designed for home users, Home Premium includes the latest in TV and home entertainment software.
Professional - For businesses and serious home users, Professional includes the most compatible software for using older programs as well as features necessary to connect to servers and domains.
Ultimate - Combing the features of both Home Premium and Professional for the ultimate windows experience.

Upgrading to Windows 7

If you purchased a new computer with Windows Vista after July 1st, you should qualify for a discounted upgrade to Windows 7. In most cases you will be able to upgrade for only $20 NZD. To get this upgrade you will need to contact the manufacturer of the computer you purchased. Note that computers with Vista Home Basic or Windows XP do not qualify to upgrade.
For more information check out www.windows7upgradeoption.com

Otherwise you will need to purchase a new copy of Windows 7. If you have a previous version of Windows 2000, XP or Vista you can purchase an Upgrade pack from most computer retailers. This will cost from around $199 up and the better the version of Windows 7, the more it will cost. You can only upgrade to certain versions of Windows 7 from older Windows.

If you don't own a qualified version of Windows to upgrade you will need to buy a full version of Windows 7, starting at around $399. This will also require you to backup and format (delete all the information) on your computer.

In all cases we recommend having Windows 7 installed by a trained IT technician.

Find out all about Windows 7 at www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7