Is a Windows 7 upgrade worth the effort?
The much-hyped release of the Windows 7 operating system has come and gone, leaving many noobies wondering if upgrading their existing PCs is a good idea. Other noobies may be asking, what’s an operating system?
What is an Operating System?
In the simplest terms, an operating system (OS) gives people a way to communicate with computer hardware such as the motherboard, video driver, power supply, CD/DVD Drive and hard disk storage. The OS manages and coordinates activities, provides security, allocates resources and hosts applications so your computer “just works.” In fact, it’s what you see when you boot your computer and before you launch software.
What Should I Know About Windows 7?
Many noobies and techies alike felt burned by the 2006 release of Windows Vista. It introduced a lot of new features that made the user experience less than delightful and it was prone to crashes.
According to Microsoft, Windows 7 aims to provide users with an overall better experience with these and other user-inspired features:
- Snap: Instantly arrange two windows exactly side by side.
- Live Taskbar Previews: Scan through open files to see what you want to bring to the forefront.
- HomeGroup: Shares files, music and printers over a home network.
- Windows Search: Search your PC much like you search the Internet.
- Jump Lists: Access recently used or favorite files, photos or websites in two clicks.
- Internet TV: Discover and launch Internet TV channels and other video content from an automatically populated programming guide.
Innovation comes at a price and in this case its $120-$220. Prices vary according to editions: Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate. Microsoft offers a comparison list that can help you choose.
When Should I Upgrade?
If you have been an unhappy user of Windows Vista, Windows 7 may be a welcome relief for you. Others who abandoned or ignored Windows Vista in favor of the earlier, more stable Windows XP operating system may want to think twice before upgrading. In general, upgrading an operating system is not a very noobie-friendly task. Too many things can go wrong, and if they go wrong enough you could end up with a computer that won’t boot.
New computers come preinstalled with operating systems, so if you plan to buy one any time soon, you can choose one that comes with Windows 7. In the meantime, you’ll save close to $200 and avoid the risks associated with the upgrade process.
What Will Happen if I Don’t Upgrade?
Eventually, software and hardware will emerge that isn’t compatible with older operating systems, but unless you use highly specialized, cutting-edge software, that will take awhile. For many people a desire for newer software eventually drives their decision to upgrade an operating system.
Can I Do It Myself?
If you absolutely must upgrade, you should have better luck following the path from Windows Vista to Windows 7. Upgrading from Windows XP may be trickier. Regardless, it is extremely important to have a complete, verified backup of all your important data files, documents, digital pictures, digital videos and emails before you attempt any kind of operating system upgrade.