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Microsoft Windows 7, set for release in late 2009, promises many improvements
built upon the Microsoft Vista® operating system. Microsoft defines the
overarching theme of Windows 7 as simplicity:
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Accomplish tasks with fewer mouse clicks.
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Wait less for tasks and application loads to complete.
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Work and play within a less complex environment.
Beyond enhanced simplicity, what can you expect from Windows 7? This quick
lesson offers a preview of the new operating system based upon the official
Windows 7 Release Candidate. You'll learn about new features grouped around
specific user roles, from the regular business user to the IT professional.
This article uses information and examples obtained from the official Windows
7 Release Candidate. There may be differences between the information
presented here and the features finalized in Windows 7. You can download the
Release Candidate here if you wish to install and explore for yourself.
Always create a full backup of your PC before installing a new operating
system.
Which version is right for you?
Windows 7 will come in three different versions: Windows 7 Home Premium,
Windows 7 Professional and Windows 7 Ultimate. This quick lesson covers the
Windows 7 Professional version. The following table shows the features on
offer in each version.
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Features
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Home Premium
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Professional
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Ultimate
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Improved desktop navigation, featuring Aero Shake, Aero Peek and Snap
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Yes
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Yes
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Yes
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Quicker program loads with enhanced desktop search functionality
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Yes
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Yes
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Yes
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Internet Explorer 8 pre-loaded for safer surfing
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Yes
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Yes
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Yes
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Enhanced Media Center functionality
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Yes
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Yes
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Yes
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Simpler, faster networking between PCs and printers with HomeGroup
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Yes
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Yes
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Yes
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Access Windows XP productivity programs in Windows XP mode
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No
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Yes
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Yes
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Join corporate networks more easily with Domain Join
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No
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Yes
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Yes
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Protect and recover your valuable data more easily with automated
backups to your home and business networks
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No
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Yes
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Yes
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BitLocker protection for data on your PC and storage devices
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No
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No
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Yes
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Switch easily between 35 languages
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No
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No
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Yes
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Table 1: Windows 7 versions.
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Printable version
