Let’s Bust Those Windows 7 Upgrade Myths

Windows 7 has only been available for a few months, but it has fast become an exciting and well-received Windows upgrade.  Featuring enhanced networking tools, a clean and easy to use user interface, and improved resource utilization, the new release means that 2010 may finally be the time to upgrade your Windows installation or purchase new computers for your business.

Despite this, however, there are some myths about Windows 7 which have some computer users avoiding the upgrade like the swine flu. Fortunately, the consultants at Best Technology Strategy have put Windows 7 to the test and are here to tell you the truth about Windows 7 and what it can do for you and your business.

Myth #1: Windows 7 is just another version of Vista

Even if you haven’t used Windows Vista yet, you’ve most likely heard about the issues Microsoft’s previous operating system experienced.  Windows Vista ran slow, used up a large amount of the computer’s RAM and processing power, and had all sorts of hardware compatibility issues. Windows 7 naysayers are quick to point out that 7 is based on Vista, which is true. What those naysayers ignore, though, is that Microsoft utilized it’s best resource – Windows users – in one of the largest beta testing programs ever. That is to say, in effect, Vista’s biggest value was as a test version of the resulting product: Windows 7. Consequently, Windows 7 is a lean, mean, computing machine which will do for you what Vista could not: allow you to use your computer as efficiently and effectively as possible.

Myth #2: Windows XP is better

One fact nobody will argue is that Windows Vista was significantly slower than Windows XP and used much more resources.  I, like many XP users, refused to upgrade to Vista because XP was still the better choice between the two. After participating in the Windows 7 beta program, however, I upgraded all six of my computers to Windows 7. Considering that 7 is more secure, is more compatible with printers and peripherals, and is much more user friendly than XP, there are a lot of bonuses to upgrading. There is also the simple fact that XP is almost a decade old.  This means that Microsoft’s support for XP will begin to evaporate in the coming months.

Myth #3 – Windows XP users can’t upgrade to Windows 7

If you already use a computer with Windows Vista installed, you are able to do what is called an “in-place” upgrade. Essentially, you can upgrade the operating system without erasing the hard drive and starting from scratch.  Windows XP users, however, have to do a “clean install”, where the hard drive is wiped clean before the operating system is installed.  Users normally need to reinstall their applications and documents after installing the operating system. Fortunately, there are ways to get around this issue and perform and “in-place upgrade” from XP.  If your computers are showing their age, upgrading to new machines with Windows 7 installed is also an option. In fact, for most businesses considering refreshing their PC fleet this year, it’s the best option.

If you’re still not convinced that Windows 7 is the way to go, get in touch with a Best Technology Strategy consultant. We are more than happy to answer your questions about Windows 7 and can help you make the transition from your old Windows installation as smooth and cost effective as possible.