Introduction to Windows 7
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All factors considered, Microsoft has the beginnings of a solid, streamlined,
higher performing operating system with Windows 7 receiving a warmer
reception as compared to Vista. When it comes to look and feel, the new UI
of Windows 7 is the biggest step forward since Windows 95. It even makes
the vintage-XP design look downright primitive. Under the hood, Windows
7 is a lot like Vista, sharing the same kernel architecture. Many consider
Windows 7 to be just a cosmetic upgrade, a more polished version of Vista
with little to offer beyond the new wallpaper and improved Aero experience.
They couldn't have been more wrong. Windows 7 brings with it many new
and enhanced features and improvements, which taken together deliver
improved performance and productivity, better troubleshooting, a richer
gaming experience, stronger security, a new approach towards compatibility
with Windows XP mode and a whole lot more.
Windows 7 feels quick and responsive. It’s a solid performer even on
hardware originally designed for Windows XP, and we’ve found that it uses
significantly less memory, disk space, and CPU cycles than Vista. There is
a Resource Monitor, which allows you to perform some serious real-time
sleuthing into running programs, services, and processes to see which ones
are affecting performance or making unexpected network connections.
Windows Vista's most reviled feature, UAC, has been completely overhauled
to be more customisable. Windows 7 also includes integrated support for
multitouch displays.
Microsoft had tried to get its "Castle" networking scheme into Windows
Vista, but the feature finally appears in Windows 7 as HomeGroup. It is a
combination of workgroup networking with easier file and media sharing,
making it easier to create a home network where various computers
scattered around the household share pictures, music, videos, documents,
printers, and other resources with each other. Windows 7 also includes a
new infrastructure for enabling more efficient background tasks.
Windows 7 is the first client version of Windows to include the
Windows PowerShell version 2, a .NET-based scripting environment for
IT professionals, out of the box. It will also include an Integrated Scripting
Environment (ISE) for PowerShell. Virtually all end-user functionality in
Windows have minor tweaks and improvements.
Ironically, Windows 7 offers better driver coverage than Vista, even on
systems that were designed for use with Vista. Missing drivers also typically
showed up via Windows Update. The new Devices and Printers folder offers
a simplified view of user-managed devices. The accompanying Device Stage
interface for managing these devices offers a user-friendly alternative to
geeky dialog boxes and navigating your way around in the Device Manager,
especially for managing MP3 players, mobile phones, photo frames and
to be more customisable. Windows 7 also includes integrated support for
multitouch displays.
Microsoft had tried to get its "Castle" networking scheme into Windows
Vista, but the feature finally appears in Windows 7 as HomeGroup. It is a
combination of workgroup networking with easier file and media sharing,
making it easier to create a home network where various computers
scattered around the household share pictures, music, videos, documents,
printers, and other resources with each other. Windows 7 also includes a
new infrastructure for enabling more efficient background tasks.
Windows 7 is the first client version of Windows to include the
Windows PowerShell version 2, a .NET-based scripting environment for
IT professionals, out of the box. It will also include an Integrated Scripting
Environment (ISE) for PowerShell. Virtually all end-user functionality in
Windows have minor tweaks and improvements.
Ironically, Windows 7 offers better driver coverage than Vista, even on
systems that were designed for use with Vista. Missing drivers also typically
showed up via Windows Update. The new Devices and Printers folder offers
a simplified view of user-managed devices. The accompanying Device Stage
interface for managing these devices offers a user-friendly alternative to
geeky dialog boxes and navigating your way around in the Device Manager,
especially for managing MP3 players, mobile phones, photo frames and
printers. Windows Vista was
all about improving memory
management, networking,
process management, security,
maintaining the compatibility
with applications, etc. even
though it quite didn't live up
to the promise. Windows 7
builds on that foundation and
delivers a better experience to
users. If you’ve been stuck in a
time loop using Windows XP
or Windows Vista, which is just
plain annoying for most people,
you can finally break free. Windows 7 is more than what Vista should have
been - it's where Microsoft needed to go.
management, networking,
process management, security,
maintaining the compatibility
with applications, etc. even
though it quite didn't live up
to the promise. Windows 7
builds on that foundation and
delivers a better experience to
users. If you’ve been stuck in a
time loop using Windows XP
or Windows Vista, which is just
plain annoying for most people,
you can finally break free. Windows 7 is more than what Vista should have
been - it's where Microsoft needed to go.
1.1 A breakdown of different versions
1.1.1 Windows 7 comes in six separate variants:
l Starter (OEM only)
l Starter (OEM only)
2 Home Basic
3 Home Premium
4 Professional
5 Enterprise
6Ultimate
1.1.1 User Interface
User Interface features are similar in Home Premium, Professional and
Ultimate. However, Home Basic lacks the Aero UI with Aero Peek, Aero
Shake, and Flip 3D all missing. Live Previews in Windows Explorer is also
not available. The Starter Edition offers a very basic UI and apart from
what's missing in Home Basic, it lacks Live Taskbar previews also.
1.1.2 Performance
Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate support two physical processors,
whereas Home Basic and Starter are limited to single processor support.
Physical processors is not equal to multi-core and all variants offer multicore
support.
Also, Home Basic and Starter only come in 32-bit versions resulting in
a limitation (below 4 GB) to the maximum RAM supported. 64 bit Home
Premium can however support 16 GB and Professional and Ultimate 64 bit
offers support for up to a whopping 192 GB of RAM.
1.1.3 Reliability
Ultimate variant has BitLocker, and BitLocker To Go encryption technology
which is missing from all others. Also, Professional and Ultimate offer
backing up to a network and encryption of the File system which is not there
in all Home Variants and the Starter Edition.
1.1.4 Bundled Applications
Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate come with its own Snipping
Tool, Sticky notes and Windows Journal. These utilities are missing from
Home Basic and the Starter Edition.
1.1.5 Multimedia
Home Basic and Starter variants do not offer Windows Media Center, DVD
playback, MPEG-2 decoding and Dolby Digital compatibility like Home
Premium, Professional and Ultimate. Home Basic and Starter do not support
TV tuners while the other variants can support up to 4 tuners each of
analogue and digital TV.
1.1.6 Networking
Home Basic and Starter can only join a HomeGroup and not start HomeGroup
sharing whereas other variants can start their own HomeGroup. Starter
User Interface features are similar in Home Premium, Professional and
Ultimate. However, Home Basic lacks the Aero UI with Aero Peek, Aero
Shake, and Flip 3D all missing. Live Previews in Windows Explorer is also
not available. The Starter Edition offers a very basic UI and apart from
what's missing in Home Basic, it lacks Live Taskbar previews also.
1.1.2 Performance
Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate support two physical processors,
whereas Home Basic and Starter are limited to single processor support.
Physical processors is not equal to multi-core and all variants offer multicore
support.
Also, Home Basic and Starter only come in 32-bit versions resulting in
a limitation (below 4 GB) to the maximum RAM supported. 64 bit Home
Premium can however support 16 GB and Professional and Ultimate 64 bit
offers support for up to a whopping 192 GB of RAM.
1.1.3 Reliability
Ultimate variant has BitLocker, and BitLocker To Go encryption technology
which is missing from all others. Also, Professional and Ultimate offer
backing up to a network and encryption of the File system which is not there
in all Home Variants and the Starter Edition.
1.1.4 Bundled Applications
Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate come with its own Snipping
Tool, Sticky notes and Windows Journal. These utilities are missing from
Home Basic and the Starter Edition.
1.1.5 Multimedia
Home Basic and Starter variants do not offer Windows Media Center, DVD
playback, MPEG-2 decoding and Dolby Digital compatibility like Home
Premium, Professional and Ultimate. Home Basic and Starter do not support
TV tuners while the other variants can support up to 4 tuners each of
analogue and digital TV.
1.1.6 Networking
Home Basic and Starter can only join a HomeGroup and not start HomeGroup
sharing whereas other variants can start their own HomeGroup. Starter
Edition does not even offer Internet Connection Sharing and bridging of
networks, a feature available in all other variants.
Hosting a Remote Desktop connection is only supported on Professional
and Ultimate, however, all Home variants can connect via Remote Desktop.
Also, Home variants lack the utility to make files available offline.
1.1.7 Mobility
Home Basic and Starter do not offer Tablet-PC functionality and multi-touch
support, something that comes by default in Home Premium, Professional
and Ultimate. Also, Windows Mobility Center in Home variants (Home Basic
and Home Presentation) lacks presentation mode present in Professional
and Ultimate.
1.1.8 Enterprise Features
This is one area where Ultimate scores big
above all other variants. Several features
such as Applocker, Booting from VHD,
DirectAccess, Federated Search, Multilingual
User Interface Language Packs, BranchCache
and a subsystem for UNIX-based applications
are only available for Ultimate and if any of
these are essential to you, Windows Ultimate
is your only choice. Also, Windows XP mode,
Location-Aware Printing and the ability to
join a domain or company networks are only
available in Professional and Ultimate. Home
variants miss out on almost all enterprise
features, but nothing surprising about that.
1.2 Windows 7 vs. Vista vs. XP
Each new software version brings with it a silent promise that it will be better
than the last one and most people switch to it instantly. But Windows Vista
changed all that. For whatever reasons, be it the vast difference between
Vista and XP, popular reluctance to switch or performance issues with
Vista that dragged along, it was very poorly received. As a result, computer
manufacturers were forced to sell new systems with XP or at least offer a
downgrade option. Even as service pack 1 was released adoption was still
less than stellar, especially in enterprises, prompting Microsoft to launch
networks, a feature available in all other variants.
Hosting a Remote Desktop connection is only supported on Professional
and Ultimate, however, all Home variants can connect via Remote Desktop.
Also, Home variants lack the utility to make files available offline.
1.1.7 Mobility
Home Basic and Starter do not offer Tablet-PC functionality and multi-touch
support, something that comes by default in Home Premium, Professional
and Ultimate. Also, Windows Mobility Center in Home variants (Home Basic
and Home Presentation) lacks presentation mode present in Professional
and Ultimate.
1.1.8 Enterprise Features
This is one area where Ultimate scores big
above all other variants. Several features
such as Applocker, Booting from VHD,
DirectAccess, Federated Search, Multilingual
User Interface Language Packs, BranchCache
and a subsystem for UNIX-based applications
are only available for Ultimate and if any of
these are essential to you, Windows Ultimate
is your only choice. Also, Windows XP mode,
Location-Aware Printing and the ability to
join a domain or company networks are only
available in Professional and Ultimate. Home
variants miss out on almost all enterprise
features, but nothing surprising about that.
1.2 Windows 7 vs. Vista vs. XP
Each new software version brings with it a silent promise that it will be better
than the last one and most people switch to it instantly. But Windows Vista
changed all that. For whatever reasons, be it the vast difference between
Vista and XP, popular reluctance to switch or performance issues with
Vista that dragged along, it was very poorly received. As a result, computer
manufacturers were forced to sell new systems with XP or at least offer a
downgrade option. Even as service pack 1 was released adoption was still
less than stellar, especially in enterprises, prompting Microsoft to launch
creative marketing campaigns (And a little Mac-bashing) in an attempt to
sway public opinion, none of which seemed to have an effect, except being a
topic of discussion and mockery on tech forums.
You are probably wondering what type of improvements Windows 7
would offer over Vista or legacy Windows XP. Is Windows 7 just Vista with
a facelift, or has Microsoft learned from its mistakes and delivered a product
that Vista should have been from the start that will restore its battered
reputation and stop its revenues from plummeting further south?
1.2.1 Performance
Windows 7 performs better than Vista and is also faster than XP, although
XP, with its lightweight core remains more capable for devices with limited
memory and outdated graphics. Vista is just outright sluggish. Windows 7
is better optimised for multi-core CPUs and includes a number of tweaks
to make the best of the latest hardware. It delivers excellent results, beating
or coming close to the performance of the lightweight XP in just about
every category. Working on light applications comes at par with XP and
working with processor and memory intensive applications is a breeze when
compared to both Vista and XP.
1.2.2 Memory management and cache usage
With Vista, Microsoft introduced a new technology called SuperFetch for
caching applications and speeding up boot times. This feature preloads
frequently-used applications into RAM, so they can be accessed quicker
when they’re needed.
The SuperFetch feature in Windows 7 differs significantly in approach
and cache memory usage from its counterpart in Vista. Under Vista,
the caching of applications starts immediately at boot-up. In Windows 7,
SuperFetch gets a delayed start and eventually also allocates much lesser
RAM to it. This means Windows 7 uses lesser resources without affecting
performance and launch time of applications. The cache usage is also lower
as compared to Vista.
1.2.3 Networking
Windows Vista had promised optimised TCP/IP, but didn't live up to the
hype. There were new features like option to set up ad hoc Wi-Fi networks
using the Network Setup wizard,WPA2 encryption, remembering settings
for different LAN connections and the Network Map displaying a graphical
sway public opinion, none of which seemed to have an effect, except being a
topic of discussion and mockery on tech forums.
You are probably wondering what type of improvements Windows 7
would offer over Vista or legacy Windows XP. Is Windows 7 just Vista with
a facelift, or has Microsoft learned from its mistakes and delivered a product
that Vista should have been from the start that will restore its battered
reputation and stop its revenues from plummeting further south?
1.2.1 Performance
Windows 7 performs better than Vista and is also faster than XP, although
XP, with its lightweight core remains more capable for devices with limited
memory and outdated graphics. Vista is just outright sluggish. Windows 7
is better optimised for multi-core CPUs and includes a number of tweaks
to make the best of the latest hardware. It delivers excellent results, beating
or coming close to the performance of the lightweight XP in just about
every category. Working on light applications comes at par with XP and
working with processor and memory intensive applications is a breeze when
compared to both Vista and XP.
1.2.2 Memory management and cache usage
With Vista, Microsoft introduced a new technology called SuperFetch for
caching applications and speeding up boot times. This feature preloads
frequently-used applications into RAM, so they can be accessed quicker
when they’re needed.
The SuperFetch feature in Windows 7 differs significantly in approach
and cache memory usage from its counterpart in Vista. Under Vista,
the caching of applications starts immediately at boot-up. In Windows 7,
SuperFetch gets a delayed start and eventually also allocates much lesser
RAM to it. This means Windows 7 uses lesser resources without affecting
performance and launch time of applications. The cache usage is also lower
as compared to Vista.
1.2.3 Networking
Windows Vista had promised optimised TCP/IP, but didn't live up to the
hype. There were new features like option to set up ad hoc Wi-Fi networks
using the Network Setup wizard,WPA2 encryption, remembering settings
for different LAN connections and the Network Map displaying a graphical
view of all your network connected devices, but internally it was no major
improvement over XP and file transfer speeds were even lesser than XP
generally. No amount of user-friendliness can mask the difference in speed.
Windows 7 takes Vista's plethora of features and adds HomeGroups.
But that's not it; the performance difference is noticeable. Transferring
large files is significantly faster than even XP. The option of setting up a
HomeGroup, which although limited with other Windows 7 machines, make
networking simpler and managing a home server easier. Troubleshooting
solves most basic problems without requiring any input from your part and
you don't have to call tech support over minor problems like IP conflict and
a disabled DHCP.
1.2.4 Security
There are plenty of reasons to like Windows XP, but security isn't one of
them. Microsoft still releases patches and security updates for XP and
will continue to do it till April 2014, but it sill lacks internal security
developments present in Vista and enhanced in Windows 7.
Agreed, Windows Vista's UAC is annoying and bugs you with too many
notifications, but it ensures that your system is not meddled by third-party
software applications. The utility is improved in Windows 7 and allows you
to customise it with multiple security levels and choice of getting alerts or
disabling them completely.
Windows 7 also comes with BitLocker, an encryption tool which was not
there in any previous version of Windows. Unfortunately, this feature only
comes with Ultimate edition of Windows, and other editions of Windows 7
and Vista users will be in the same position as XP.
In Windows 7 and Vista, system services are more isolated and run
with fewer privileges, reducing the damage that malicious code can do. A
new TCP/IP stack offers improved encryption and authentication options,
and Address Space Layout Randomization loads system files as random
memory addresses, making it far harder for basic malware to exploit key
system functions.
Windows 7 borrows Vista's advances and allows you to customise so it
scores above XP and Vista.
Its Windows 7 > Vista > XP in terms of Security.
1.2.5 Gaming
One of Windows USP is its gaming abilities. Even though Vista came outlong time back, XP remains the choice of platform for most game developers
and almost every major release is made to run on it. Vista can handle almost
all of them with some requiring you to run in Compability mode and some
working better than they do on XP. There is no shortage of compatible
gaming accessories for both XP and Vista alike.
While Vista added support for DirectX 10 gaming, Windows 7 comes
with DirectX 11 - a graphics and sound standard which delivers better image
quality, new effects, 3D and improved performance shour your graphics card
is Dx11 compatible. Windows 7 also does not have any performance issues
like Vista and utilises RAM better both XP and Vista. If you have a mid range
spec-ed computer, Windows 7's gaming performance will impress you with
higher frame rates in general. While it cannot handle older DOS games like
XP, we would still go with Windows 7>XP>Vista for gaming because once
game developers start utilising Dx11, games will come alive in full 3D glory
on your computer.
1.2.6 Startup and shutdown
Startup Time is not really a factor when you judge the performance of an
Operating System because most power users start their computer only once
a day. But its an important cosideration for an average user who uses his
computer for short intervals spread over different times in the day. He will
expect the computer to start as fast as possible. Another consideration is
the fact that Start-up and Shut-down times are the first directly measurable
indication of OS's speed.
We tested all the three Operating systems on a laptop with 2.4 GHz
(P8400) Centrino 2 processor, 4 GB of RAM at 800 MHz FSB and a 7200
RPM hard-disk drive. Windows 7 took 23 seconds to bring the desktop,
whereas XP took 27 seconds and Vista faired a high 34 seconds. Now,
there is a difference betweek appearance of the Desktop and the full startup
of an Operating system since a lot of services in Windows 7 and Vista
are scheduled to 'delay-start'. To compare that, we started Windows and
measured the time it took to connect to the internet, Open Internet Explorer
and open Google.com Homepage. Windows 7 gets to work quickly and after
the appearance of the desktop it took only a further 3 seconds to display the
Google homepage. Compared to this, Vista took more than 8 seconds and XP
took a competitive 4 seconds. The whole startup process for Windows 7 up
to the appearance of Google took 26 seconds. Vista takes 42 seconds and XP
31 seconds.Windows 7 also shuts down quicker than its two predecessors, taking
just 6 seconds compared with 9 seconds for Vista and just a bit more than
6 seconds for XP.
Overall, the startup and shutdown timings show that Windows 7
performs best in a clean install. XP comes a close second and Vista a distant
third. However, updates, security patches and application installations may
alter those timings.
1.3 Vs Linux?
Linux has never been able to set foot in the desktop arena even though for
years, we have been saying 'This is the year of Linux'. Windows recently has
lost some hold with its share dropping 3% but it still holds its ground at 88%,
and that also goes to OS X’s credit.
Fedora and Debian distros like Ubuntu lately have been making waves and
some computer manufacturers even give you an option to buy a computer
with Linux preinstalled instead of Windows but the major problem with that
is : The price difference between a Windows-bundled CP and one that comes
with Linux is negligible. So, most buyers tend to go with Windows since they
can get a free Linux distro later on and install themselves. This has always
been there in Windows vs Linux debates
But lets look from a feature point of view if Windows 7 can trump Linux.
Windows 7 installs easier although one can argue that recent Linux distros
come with easy to use installers and some even feature a powerful Disk
Manager within. When it comes to easy availability of software (Again
arguable), Gaming (Windows kills Linux in this) and simpler configuration
of user settings (Agreed that it's not as customizable as Linux; but it's
simpler), Windows 7 probably appeals more to an Average Joe. Windows 7
brings in new dimensions to the age old debate. We shall not go more into it.
1.4 32-bit vs 64-bit
32-bit Operating systems can only handle about 3-3.5 GB of RAM because
of the 232= 4 GB limitation. (Unless you are running the specially modded
kernel image with Physical Address Extension –PAE mode enabled which
you can do by adding /PAE switch to your boot config file or by typing
"BCDEdit /set PAE forceenable" in command prompt of Windows 7)
Most recent processors are however 64-bit processors, so it makes more
sense to go for a 64-bit Operating System. That even removes the 4GB
RAM limitation and in general can be more responsive when runningmultiple tasks together. Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise and
Ultimate variants of Windows 7 all come in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
Even with all its advantages, people still prefer 32-bit Operating Systems
because of lack of 64-bit softwares, its inability to run 16-bit programs and
a few misconceptions as well. Lets see if we manage to clear your doubt
regarding this.
Is your computer capable of running a 64-bit version of Windows?
To run a 64-bit version of Windows 7 or any other operating system for
that matter, your computer must have a 64-bit-capable processor. If you are
unsure whether your processor is 64-bit-capable, do the following:
l Open Performance Information and Tools from the Control Panel.
l Click on “View and print detailed performance and system information”.
l In the System section of the window that appears, you can see what type of
operating system you're currently running under System type, and whether
or not you can run a 64-bit version of Windows under 64-bit capable
heading. (If your computer is already running a 64-bit version of Windows,
the 64-bit capable listing might not be available.)
improvement over XP and file transfer speeds were even lesser than XP
generally. No amount of user-friendliness can mask the difference in speed.
Windows 7 takes Vista's plethora of features and adds HomeGroups.
But that's not it; the performance difference is noticeable. Transferring
large files is significantly faster than even XP. The option of setting up a
HomeGroup, which although limited with other Windows 7 machines, make
networking simpler and managing a home server easier. Troubleshooting
solves most basic problems without requiring any input from your part and
you don't have to call tech support over minor problems like IP conflict and
a disabled DHCP.
1.2.4 Security
There are plenty of reasons to like Windows XP, but security isn't one of
them. Microsoft still releases patches and security updates for XP and
will continue to do it till April 2014, but it sill lacks internal security
developments present in Vista and enhanced in Windows 7.
Agreed, Windows Vista's UAC is annoying and bugs you with too many
notifications, but it ensures that your system is not meddled by third-party
software applications. The utility is improved in Windows 7 and allows you
to customise it with multiple security levels and choice of getting alerts or
disabling them completely.
Windows 7 also comes with BitLocker, an encryption tool which was not
there in any previous version of Windows. Unfortunately, this feature only
comes with Ultimate edition of Windows, and other editions of Windows 7
and Vista users will be in the same position as XP.
In Windows 7 and Vista, system services are more isolated and run
with fewer privileges, reducing the damage that malicious code can do. A
new TCP/IP stack offers improved encryption and authentication options,
and Address Space Layout Randomization loads system files as random
memory addresses, making it far harder for basic malware to exploit key
system functions.
Windows 7 borrows Vista's advances and allows you to customise so it
scores above XP and Vista.
Its Windows 7 > Vista > XP in terms of Security.
1.2.5 Gaming
One of Windows USP is its gaming abilities. Even though Vista came outlong time back, XP remains the choice of platform for most game developers
and almost every major release is made to run on it. Vista can handle almost
all of them with some requiring you to run in Compability mode and some
working better than they do on XP. There is no shortage of compatible
gaming accessories for both XP and Vista alike.
While Vista added support for DirectX 10 gaming, Windows 7 comes
with DirectX 11 - a graphics and sound standard which delivers better image
quality, new effects, 3D and improved performance shour your graphics card
is Dx11 compatible. Windows 7 also does not have any performance issues
like Vista and utilises RAM better both XP and Vista. If you have a mid range
spec-ed computer, Windows 7's gaming performance will impress you with
higher frame rates in general. While it cannot handle older DOS games like
XP, we would still go with Windows 7>XP>Vista for gaming because once
game developers start utilising Dx11, games will come alive in full 3D glory
on your computer.
1.2.6 Startup and shutdown
Startup Time is not really a factor when you judge the performance of an
Operating System because most power users start their computer only once
a day. But its an important cosideration for an average user who uses his
computer for short intervals spread over different times in the day. He will
expect the computer to start as fast as possible. Another consideration is
the fact that Start-up and Shut-down times are the first directly measurable
indication of OS's speed.
We tested all the three Operating systems on a laptop with 2.4 GHz
(P8400) Centrino 2 processor, 4 GB of RAM at 800 MHz FSB and a 7200
RPM hard-disk drive. Windows 7 took 23 seconds to bring the desktop,
whereas XP took 27 seconds and Vista faired a high 34 seconds. Now,
there is a difference betweek appearance of the Desktop and the full startup
of an Operating system since a lot of services in Windows 7 and Vista
are scheduled to 'delay-start'. To compare that, we started Windows and
measured the time it took to connect to the internet, Open Internet Explorer
and open Google.com Homepage. Windows 7 gets to work quickly and after
the appearance of the desktop it took only a further 3 seconds to display the
Google homepage. Compared to this, Vista took more than 8 seconds and XP
took a competitive 4 seconds. The whole startup process for Windows 7 up
to the appearance of Google took 26 seconds. Vista takes 42 seconds and XP
31 seconds.Windows 7 also shuts down quicker than its two predecessors, taking
just 6 seconds compared with 9 seconds for Vista and just a bit more than
6 seconds for XP.
Overall, the startup and shutdown timings show that Windows 7
performs best in a clean install. XP comes a close second and Vista a distant
third. However, updates, security patches and application installations may
alter those timings.
1.3 Vs Linux?
Linux has never been able to set foot in the desktop arena even though for
years, we have been saying 'This is the year of Linux'. Windows recently has
lost some hold with its share dropping 3% but it still holds its ground at 88%,
and that also goes to OS X’s credit.
Fedora and Debian distros like Ubuntu lately have been making waves and
some computer manufacturers even give you an option to buy a computer
with Linux preinstalled instead of Windows but the major problem with that
is : The price difference between a Windows-bundled CP and one that comes
with Linux is negligible. So, most buyers tend to go with Windows since they
can get a free Linux distro later on and install themselves. This has always
been there in Windows vs Linux debates
But lets look from a feature point of view if Windows 7 can trump Linux.
Windows 7 installs easier although one can argue that recent Linux distros
come with easy to use installers and some even feature a powerful Disk
Manager within. When it comes to easy availability of software (Again
arguable), Gaming (Windows kills Linux in this) and simpler configuration
of user settings (Agreed that it's not as customizable as Linux; but it's
simpler), Windows 7 probably appeals more to an Average Joe. Windows 7
brings in new dimensions to the age old debate. We shall not go more into it.
1.4 32-bit vs 64-bit
32-bit Operating systems can only handle about 3-3.5 GB of RAM because
of the 232= 4 GB limitation. (Unless you are running the specially modded
kernel image with Physical Address Extension –PAE mode enabled which
you can do by adding /PAE switch to your boot config file or by typing
"BCDEdit /set PAE forceenable" in command prompt of Windows 7)
Most recent processors are however 64-bit processors, so it makes more
sense to go for a 64-bit Operating System. That even removes the 4GB
RAM limitation and in general can be more responsive when runningmultiple tasks together. Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise and
Ultimate variants of Windows 7 all come in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
Even with all its advantages, people still prefer 32-bit Operating Systems
because of lack of 64-bit softwares, its inability to run 16-bit programs and
a few misconceptions as well. Lets see if we manage to clear your doubt
regarding this.
Is your computer capable of running a 64-bit version of Windows?
To run a 64-bit version of Windows 7 or any other operating system for
that matter, your computer must have a 64-bit-capable processor. If you are
unsure whether your processor is 64-bit-capable, do the following:
l Open Performance Information and Tools from the Control Panel.
l Click on “View and print detailed performance and system information”.
l In the System section of the window that appears, you can see what type of
operating system you're currently running under System type, and whether
or not you can run a 64-bit version of Windows under 64-bit capable
heading. (If your computer is already running a 64-bit version of Windows,
the 64-bit capable listing might not be available.)
Is your computer currently running a 32-bit or a 64-bit version of
Windows? To see if your computer is running 32-bit or 64-bit Windows, do
the following:
l Open System from the Control Panel
l There, you can view the system type.
Can you upgrade from a 32-bit version of Windows to a 64-bit version
of Windows?
No. If you are currently running a 32-bit version of Windows, you can
only upgrade to a 32-bit version of Windows 7. Similarly, if you are running
a 64-bit version of Windows, you can only upgrade to 64-bit version of
Windows 7. If you want to move from a 32-bit version of Windows to a 64-bit
version of Windows 7, you'll need to perform a clean installation of the 64-bit
version of Windows.
Can you run 32-bit programs on a 64-bit computer?
Yes. Most programs designed for a computer with 32-bit Windows will
work on 64-bit versions of Windows. However, drivers designed for 32-bit
versions of Windows do not work on computers running a 64-bit version
of Windows. You will have to obtain 64-bit drivers for your devices, but you
need not worry too much since most driver cd’s these days come with both 32
and 64 bit drivers. Its only a matter of concern for older hardware, especially
the ones for which the company has stopped support and updating drivers.
Would you benefit from using a 64-bit computer?
Yes. You will have more RAM available to you and you will finally be able
to utilise your entire 4GB or higher amount of RAM. Apart from that, 64-bit
Operating system is more efficient in handling memory intensive programs
and from our experience softwares like Photoshop, 3D Studio Max and
others which have separate 64-bit versions for 64-bit Operating systems run
smoother than their 32-bit counterparts.
1.5 System requirements
Microsoft lists the minimum system requirements for Windows 7 on its
website as:
l 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor (Windows
XP stated this as 300 MHz; whereas Vista’s bare necessity was the same.)
l 1 gigabyte (GB) RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit) (Windows XP needed
just 128 MB minimum but again, it’s the same as Vista’s)
l 16 GB available hard disk space (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit) ( Windows XP
required just 4.2 GB in contrast whereas Vista for some reason stated 20 GB
Windows? To see if your computer is running 32-bit or 64-bit Windows, do
the following:
l Open System from the Control Panel
l There, you can view the system type.
Can you upgrade from a 32-bit version of Windows to a 64-bit version
of Windows?
No. If you are currently running a 32-bit version of Windows, you can
only upgrade to a 32-bit version of Windows 7. Similarly, if you are running
a 64-bit version of Windows, you can only upgrade to 64-bit version of
Windows 7. If you want to move from a 32-bit version of Windows to a 64-bit
version of Windows 7, you'll need to perform a clean installation of the 64-bit
version of Windows.
Can you run 32-bit programs on a 64-bit computer?
Yes. Most programs designed for a computer with 32-bit Windows will
work on 64-bit versions of Windows. However, drivers designed for 32-bit
versions of Windows do not work on computers running a 64-bit version
of Windows. You will have to obtain 64-bit drivers for your devices, but you
need not worry too much since most driver cd’s these days come with both 32
and 64 bit drivers. Its only a matter of concern for older hardware, especially
the ones for which the company has stopped support and updating drivers.
Would you benefit from using a 64-bit computer?
Yes. You will have more RAM available to you and you will finally be able
to utilise your entire 4GB or higher amount of RAM. Apart from that, 64-bit
Operating system is more efficient in handling memory intensive programs
and from our experience softwares like Photoshop, 3D Studio Max and
others which have separate 64-bit versions for 64-bit Operating systems run
smoother than their 32-bit counterparts.
1.5 System requirements
Microsoft lists the minimum system requirements for Windows 7 on its
website as:
l 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor (Windows
XP stated this as 300 MHz; whereas Vista’s bare necessity was the same.)
l 1 gigabyte (GB) RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit) (Windows XP needed
just 128 MB minimum but again, it’s the same as Vista’s)
l 16 GB available hard disk space (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit) ( Windows XP
required just 4.2 GB in contrast whereas Vista for some reason stated 20 GB
for 32 bit and a massive 40 GB for 64-bit variant as its minimum.)
l DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver (Again, it’s
the same as Vista’s. XP with its modest graphics just required a Super VGA
graphics device.)
l Additional requirements to use certain features:
l Internet access
l Depending on resolution, video playback may require additional memory
and advanced graphics hardware
l For some Windows Media Center functionality a TV tuner and additional
hardware may be required
l Windows Touch and Tablet PCs require specific hardware
l HomeGroup requires a network and PCs running Windows 7
l DVD/CD authoring requires a compatible optical drive
l BitLocker requires Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2
l BitLocker To Go requires a USB flash drive
l Windows XP Mode requires an additional 1 GB of RAM, an additional
15 GB of available hard disk space, and a processor capable of hardware
virtualization with Intel VT or AMD-V turned on
l Music and sound require audio output
We saw how it compares with Vista and XP and even though its an
upgrade to Vista, system requirements haven’t increased at all. We've even
tested Windows 7 on a machine with 1.6 Ghz Intel Celeron processor and
512 MB RAM with 32 MB shared for Video Memory and it seemed pretty
usable for most basic tasks. Even though almost the entire ram was used all
the time, working on multiple tabs in Firefox, word processing and music
playback simultaneously was not outright painful. While that system
handles Windows XP fairly well, Vista just kills it and renders it unusable
even for internet browsing.
We, however, do not recommend you to install Windows 7 on anything
lesser than 1GB RAM but you can give it a spin if you intend to use your
computer as a netbook and all of your hardware is compatible. You can check
that with a handy utility called the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor which we
shall be talking about next. Its like a ‘First Things First’ before you get down to
installing Windows 7 or even considering it for your computer if your machine
doesn’t boast of the latest hardware and all the RAM you will ever need.
1.6 Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor
Microsoft provides this really handy tool called "Windows 7 UpgradeAdvisor" which scans your PC and lets you
know if your system is capable of running
Windows 7 and explains any potential
compatibility issues.
In general, if your PC/laptop had Windows
Vista, it can run Windows 7 and from our
experience, most computers handle Windows
7 better than Vista. But if you were sticking to
Windows XP and don't have one of those "Vista Ready" branded computers,
this utility will come very handy.
Just download, install and launch the application. It will scan your
computer and any external device connected to your computer like printers,
scanners etc. for compatibility with Windows 7 and generate a detailed
report with potential issues and suggestions to resolve them. For example, it
might let you know that you need an updated driver for your Graphics Card
and can direct you as to where to get it.
l DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver (Again, it’s
the same as Vista’s. XP with its modest graphics just required a Super VGA
graphics device.)
l Additional requirements to use certain features:
l Internet access
l Depending on resolution, video playback may require additional memory
and advanced graphics hardware
l For some Windows Media Center functionality a TV tuner and additional
hardware may be required
l Windows Touch and Tablet PCs require specific hardware
l HomeGroup requires a network and PCs running Windows 7
l DVD/CD authoring requires a compatible optical drive
l BitLocker requires Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2
l BitLocker To Go requires a USB flash drive
l Windows XP Mode requires an additional 1 GB of RAM, an additional
15 GB of available hard disk space, and a processor capable of hardware
virtualization with Intel VT or AMD-V turned on
l Music and sound require audio output
We saw how it compares with Vista and XP and even though its an
upgrade to Vista, system requirements haven’t increased at all. We've even
tested Windows 7 on a machine with 1.6 Ghz Intel Celeron processor and
512 MB RAM with 32 MB shared for Video Memory and it seemed pretty
usable for most basic tasks. Even though almost the entire ram was used all
the time, working on multiple tabs in Firefox, word processing and music
playback simultaneously was not outright painful. While that system
handles Windows XP fairly well, Vista just kills it and renders it unusable
even for internet browsing.
We, however, do not recommend you to install Windows 7 on anything
lesser than 1GB RAM but you can give it a spin if you intend to use your
computer as a netbook and all of your hardware is compatible. You can check
that with a handy utility called the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor which we
shall be talking about next. Its like a ‘First Things First’ before you get down to
installing Windows 7 or even considering it for your computer if your machine
doesn’t boast of the latest hardware and all the RAM you will ever need.
1.6 Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor
Microsoft provides this really handy tool called "Windows 7 UpgradeAdvisor" which scans your PC and lets you
know if your system is capable of running
Windows 7 and explains any potential
compatibility issues.
In general, if your PC/laptop had Windows
Vista, it can run Windows 7 and from our
experience, most computers handle Windows
7 better than Vista. But if you were sticking to
Windows XP and don't have one of those "Vista Ready" branded computers,
this utility will come very handy.
Just download, install and launch the application. It will scan your
computer and any external device connected to your computer like printers,
scanners etc. for compatibility with Windows 7 and generate a detailed
report with potential issues and suggestions to resolve them. For example, it
might let you know that you need an updated driver for your Graphics Card
and can direct you as to where to get it.
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