IT Service Blog

The big question everyone is asking: What is new with Windows 7 and how should our business be thinking about upgrading to it?

There are three versions of Windows 7. Each has its advantages

Take a look at Basic Windows 7 Pricing

• Professional edition is best for most business users because it enables them to connect to a corporate network. Professional costs $199 for an upgrade or $299 for a full version for PCs without an Operating System already installed

• Ultimate, the most versatile and powerful edition, includes all the features of Windows 7 Professional and adds BitLocker, a hard drive encryption tool, Direct Access, a remote connectivity technology, and BranchCache, a communication tool for satellite offices. An upgrade to Ultimate costs $219; the full version costs $319.

• Enterprise has the same features as Windows 7 Ultimate, but is sold only with Software Assurance, a business license agreement that ensures you always have the latest version of Windows 7, provides technical support, facilitates companywide deployment, and is suitable for larger enterprises. This is great for companies that already have a system administrator who manages

Here are some of the advantages to Windows 7 over Vista or XP.

1. Increased availability of random access memory (RAM) for running more applications at once
2. Improves on Vista deficiencies by not accessing the OS much less which speeds up processing
3. Faster access to stored files across multiple computers on the network using virtual file libraries rather than physical folders. 
4. The SNAP feature for comparing documents neatly displays windows simply by dragging them to the edge of the screen
5. Windows 7 Ultimate and Enterprise can be hooked to a Server which makes it easier to get remote access from those computers
6. Gadgets which enable you to search faster on your computer, another computer you specify or on the Internet
7. Enhanced security using BitLocker To Go which encrypts data stored on portable USB drives

Create a plan for the upgrade

 

 The first question to ask is whether or not you are currently running XP or Vista on your existing computers on the network.

 

The upgrade path from Vista is uncomplicated because Vista PCs meet the Windows 7 requirements. Upgrading from XP is best done on new equipment. I wouldn't bother upgrading an XP machine over 3 years old. It is best to wait until that machine has reached its full maturity and then upgrade to a new computer running Windows 7.

 

There are other requirements for upgrading to Windows 7 to consider. Please let me know if you would like a free upgrade evaluation and I'd be happy to share those with you.

 

 

Here are the basic steps of evaluation for any upgrade of technology

1. Evaluate the performance of your network and people using their computers - is there a need
2. Determine if an investment in an upgrade prior to the end is a good financial decision - set a budget
3. Have a simple plan for the upgrade

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