Windows7 is so much clearer

Nov 12 2009 by Ben Lee , The Journal

LAST month Microsoft launched the latest edition of its Windows operating system. It is quite possible that this product launch slipped past you almost unnoticed.

After suffering from very negative feedback following the launch of Vista nearly three years ago Microsoft has been very careful not to over- hype the product.

Vista arrived full of promises that all of our computer problems would be solved. It soon became apparent that something had gone wrong. Everyone seemed to be unhappy with its performance and the backlash was severe.

This time around, Microsoft has been very careful to set expectations at realistic levels and has focused on features that can help people work more effectively and simply. Windows7 doesn't require a faster computer than Vista, in fact in most cases a computer will perform better with Windows7. There's even an edition created especially for the low powered netbook computers.

It has some useful interface improvements such as Snap that lets you dock windows against screen edges for easy comparison and Peek that gives live previews for hidden programs. Jump Lists provide quick access to recently used files and program features.

Home users can easily and safely share printers and documents with friends using Home Group. Simply enter a common password, choose what to share and you are ready to go. Want to watch Sky TV on your computer? Well soon you can, Microsoft has partnered with Sky to let you play their channels from inside Windows Media Center.

Windows7 also has some useful tools to help enhance the manageability of your corporate environment. BitLocker, Microsoft's encryption tool, lets you enforce encryption for USB devices or laptops and Direct Access allows remote workers safe and automatic access to company systems while travelling.

Two weeks on from the launch and things are looking good for Microsoft, Windows 7 unit sales were 234% greater than Vista's for the first few days in the US. It seems the extensive public pre-release testing period helped to iron out all the kinks. So far Microsoft seems to be avoiding another Vista-style backlash.

If you are buying a new computer it will be difficult to avoid Windows 7 but don't forget, it is likely you will also be able to enjoy the new features on your existing PC. If your business skipped the upgrade to Vista, then now is the time to seriously look at moving away from Windows XP. Windows 7 is a viable alternative.

Ben Lee is a Senior Consultant at IT and Business Consultancy, Waterstons Ltd