
Mogollon Rim Computer Services
Windows 7 Operating System
The Windows 7 upgrade survival guide
What's really new in Windows 7?
The answer, not much!.
How to fix the 10 Biggest Windows Annoyances
So, what’s the bottom line here? Well, the way that I look at OS technology is that it represents progressing rather than sudden ground-breaking changes. A new OS isn’t something that people need to rush out to adopt because there’s usually very little reason to do so.
Also, I think that users out there need to know that there’s very little that’s new or unique to Windows 7. Sure, there are some nice features, but so far I’ve not come across anything that I’d label as a killer or a must have feature. Even Microsoft’s best marketing propaganda has so far been pretty subdued. However, before you take that out of context, consider that the same can be said of most modern OSes. Over the past decade we’ve seen convergence of the sort that was previously unheard of, and as more people use the browser as an OS, the actual OS they have installed on their computers becomes less of an issue. Flickr, Facebook, Gmail, Twitter, YouTube and so on don’t care what OS you use. Killer features are few and far between, and some might say that the desktop/notebook OS has gone about as far as it can.
If your PC currently runs on Vista or XP, then there’s little that you’ll find in Windows 7 that you can’t either do with your current OS with a bit of know-how, or using third-party software. Sure, if you want the convenience of HomeGroup or Media Center, or want to get the best out of touchscreen technology, then Windows 7 will be there waiting to offer you that, but these are fringe examples. Over 80% of users out there use less than 20% of the features and technologies offered to them by their current OS, making upgrading the OS unnecessary, and costly, hassle. Most people (and that includes the home office/small office and small business users out there) would be far better off spending money earmarked on a new OS on more RAM, larger hard drives, or better data backup mechanisms. Let the new OS come to you when you buy new PCs. As for enterprise customers, people I speak to are still playing the wait and see game, and I have little doubt that many, even those who are enthusiastic about Windows 7, will wait until the first service pack is released before making a commitment.
Check if my XP or Vista PC will be compataible with Windows 7, visit the Windows 7 upgrade advisor.
Another thing to bear in mind is that Microsoft will one again try to create artificial stratification within the Windows 7 ecosystem by removing some features from lower versions. For example, if you want to be able to access your PC via remote desktop, you have to stump up the cash for Professional. But consider whether you really need to spend extra cash for a feature that you can add for free. Similarly, you can add features such as DVD playback support to Starter edition using freely available software. Remember, Microsoft relies on naive users being dissatisfied with the lower-specced editions of Windows to boost revenues.
Turn that new Windows 7 OS into XP, a wonderful article from the folks at Toms Hardware on how to make the new and improved (?) feel like the old tried and true.
I’m not going to make any silly claims that Microsoft will be dethroned any time soon, but I do believe that unless the Redmond giant can align user expectation with price (in a market where technology prices are falling at an incredible rate), their seemingly unstoppable upgrade train could well be headed for the buffers. I Will stay with my XP Thank you very much Microsoft.
Pricing
With the state of the economy in such disarray Microsoft is shipping Vista II, excuse me Windows 7 is beyond reason.
If you'd like to be the first person on your block with the latest and greatest Hi Tech Whiz Bang gadget I present you with Windows 7 pricing details.
Microsoft just laid out the Windows 7 pricing grid for us, and here's the big takeaway: Vista and XP users will need to pony up $119.99, $199.99, or $219.99 on October 22 to score their Windows 7 Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate upgrade, and those of you who want a full retail disc will need to roll up with $199.99, $299.99, or $319.99 respectively. It's not quite that simple, though: starting tomorrow, June 26, you'll be able to pre-order upgrades at much cheaper prices -- $49.99 for Home Premium and $99.99 for Professional, just as we'd heard -- but pre-orders will be strictly limited in number and are expected to sell out quickly. Obviously we'd prefer it if final pricing was $49 and $99 for everyone, but it's not a bad start, especially since participating manufacturers will be offering cheap / free upgrades to 7 on new computers sold after June 26, 2009 with Vista as well.
Tips & Tricks
A Healthy Computer
Is up to date with all it's software updates, visit these links below for updates and to see how vulnerable your PC is. If you have no Anti-Virus program running I highly recommend you obtain AVG 9.0 free version.
- Microsoft Windows Update
- Secunia Vulnerability Scanner
- AVG 9.0 Free Anti Virus
- How to Remove a Computer Virus
If you do not run a anti virus program what's the use of running a personal computer.
Require AVG for multiple computers more than 3 (volume licensing) or servers contact us for details and pricing.
