TechAdvisory.org » Windows 7

Windows 7 and 2008 R2: Does It Matter?

Editor — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 13:30:00 +0000

With Microsoft’s move to transition users to the newer Windows 7 and Windows 2008 R2 platforms through XP support discontinuation announcements, it may be high time to start thinking of an upgrade – and how you can execute it efficiently and cost effectively.

One of the standard expectations when using technology is the inevitable need to change and upgrade. Technology moves forward on the principle that things that already seem great can be made even better – and more often than not, the improvements are worth the change.

This principle applies to the operating system and SMB platform you may be using now. While it may have served you well so far (after all, if it ain’t broke, why fix it, right?), that doesn’t mean that things can’t get any better – and in a measureable way that improves your productivity. With systems like Windows 7 (which isn’t exactly ‘new’, since it’s been around for a good while) and Windows 2008 R2 gaining ground in the market and proving their worth, it may be time to start thinking about moving up and upgrading your current software.

Here are some thoughts to start the ball rolling: studies and tests have shown that Windows 7 and 2008 R2 outperform their predecessors in almost every conceivable situation. And considering Microsoft’s recent announcement that they will discontinue support for Windows XP by 2014, the possibility of needing to upgrade becomes more pressing. Like it or not, you will eventually get left behind as technology marches on.

Of course, we realize that it’s not as simple as waving a magic upgrade wand and that’s that. It’s important to understand the way you do business in order to accurately assess how an upgrade will affect your operations. So please contact us and we’ll be happy to sit down with you and find ways to implement an upgrade in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible.

Time to Upgrade Your OS and Server?

Editor — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Still on an old Microsoft system? It might be time to move up and do an upgrade, as studies and tests are showing consistently better performance from the new Windows 7 and Windows 2008 R2. Your old system might be limping along, but there’s no harm in making things better and improving your productivity.

Why Move Up to Windows 7 and 2008 R2?

Editor — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 13:30:00 +0000

It’s common for many businesses to forgo upgrading their systems when new software comes along – it’s not only expensive, but why change something that’s been serviceable and reliable so far? However, considering that studies and tests are showing that Windows 7 and Windows 2008 R2 are significantly outperforming their predecessors, it may be time to at least consider beginning a gradual upgrade.

Rename Files Quickly in Windows 7

Editor — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 15:00:00 +0000

With Windows 7, there are easier and faster ways to rename multiple files in one sweep. The first way is to click on a file’s name and rename it as usual, then press the “Tab” key to access the next file in the list.

Another way is to select multiple files (press the Ctrl key or Shift key and select the desired files), then right click on the first file and choose “Rename” to give it a new name. The rest of the files will be renamed with the same name. For example, if you name the first file “image”, it will become “image (1)” followed by “image (2)” and so on.

Using/Disabling the Window Snap Feature in Windows 7

Editor — Fri, 27 May 2011 15:00:00 +0000

When Windows 7 was released, it introduced a new feature called Snap—which allows users to easily resize windows when they are dragged to the edges of the screen. Depending on where the window is dragged, it expands vertically, takes up the entire screen, or arranges itself side-by-side with another open window.

If you find this feature more annoying than helpful, you can disable it in the “Ease of Access Center” in the Windows Control Panel. Click on the “Change how your mouse works” link, scroll down to the “Make it easier to manage windows” section, then check the box labeled “Prevent windows from being automatically arranged when moved to the edge of the screen.”

Launching Multiple Instances of the Same Software in Windows 7

Editor — Thu, 12 May 2011 15:00:00 +0000

There are times when you might want to open multiple instances of the same software program quickly, such as when you need to work on multiple documents in Word or Excel, or when you want to launch multiple windows of your browser.

In Windows 7, you can do this easily. Just press and hold down the SHIFT key while left-clicking on the first instance of the program in the Windows taskbar, and a new instance of the same program is opened.

Customize the Windows 7 Logon Screen

Editor — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Would you like to customize the Windows 7 Logon Screen and use your own wallpaper image? There are actually several ways to do this.

The first method involves editing the registry and creating a folder containing your own custom images. However, if you are uncomfortable doing this, or if it seems like too much work, there is a free application that can do it for you called Windows 7 Logon Background Changer. The download is a zip file, and once you unzip it, just run the installer. After installation, the program will allow you to choose from images already on your drive and view a preview of how it will look. Find out more by downloading the program.

Access Hidden Regional Themes in Windows 7

Editor — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 19:30:00 +0000

Windows 7 offers location-specific Aero themes based on the language and location you pick during installation. But did you know you can access other hidden themes from different countries?
Read more.

Quick Way to Access Run in Windows 7

Editor — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:30:00 +0000

Wish you could access the run command in Windows 7 more easily? Now you can.
Read more.

Search the Internet with Start Menu Search

Editor — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 17:00:37 +0000

Start Menu Search is one of the best features in modern Windows versions, but in Windows 7, it can only be used to search for programs and files by default. Fortunately, with a simple change, you can use Start Menu Search to trigger Internet searches as well - and these searches will be performed by your default browser and search engine.
Read more.

Prevent Your Mouse from Waking Windows 7 from Sleep Mode

Editor — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 16:09:21 +0000

Among a host of power management options available in Windows 7, sleep mode is a convenient way to save power and reduce wear and tear on your computer’s hardware. However, your mouse is set by default to wake up Windows 7 from sleep mode, and one slight tap or vibration can wake your computer up. Luckily, you can disable this feature. Read more.

Microsoft Has Phased Out Windows XP

kirana — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 07:15:55 +0000

Microsoft sales for Windows XP ceased on October 22, 2010, and support for the old OS will continue only until 2014.

If you’ve been using Microsoft XP for a long time – with good reason, XP being one of the most stable operating systems in the Windows line – it might be time to finally migrate over to the new Windows 7.

Microsoft has recently ceased sales for the popular OS – the last day to purchase XP was October 22, 2010. The software giant is now dedicating most of its resources and efforts to its latest OS, Windows 7. While XP support will continue until April 2014, that’s less than four years from now, and Microsoft is recommending users switch to Windows 7.

As for compatibility issues, Microsoft assures users that most programs that work with XP also work on Windows 7. “Windows 7 is designed to be compatible with the most popular hardware and software products you use every day. Thousands of these will work just fine,” reads a FAQ entry on their website. There is also the Windows 7 Compatibility Center, where you can check programs to ensure they will work on the new Microsoft OS.

If you are thinking of switching to Windows 7, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ll be happy to discuss a customized plan for your business’s smooth transition to Microsoft’s latest OS.

Finally, a Goodbye Salute to Windows XP

Editor — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 07:05:55 +0000

Microsoft recommends transferring to Windows 7 as Microsoft XP ceased sales on October 22, 2010, with support available only until April 2014.

Microsoft Has Pulled the Plug on Windows XP

Editor — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 07:00:53 +0000

It might be time to migrate to the new Windows 7: Microsoft ceased sales for XP on October 22, 2010, with support continuing only until April 2014.

Take Advantage of Jump Lists in Windows 7

Editor — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Jump Lists are lists of recently opened items, such as files, folders, or websites, organized by the program that you used to open them. You can also pin favorites to a Jump List, so you can quickly get to the items that you use every day. Read more.

Add Dates or Find Difference Between Dates in Windows 7 Calculator

Editor — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:28:59 +0000

Need to quickly find out what day it would be 45 days from now without counting squares on a calendar? Want to know how many days until a holiday, birthday, meeting, or other special event? The built-in calculator in Windows 7 can answer these questions. Read more.

Password Protect Folders in Windows 7 or Vista

Editor — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 07:33:34 +0000

Do you want to lock and password-protect your important folders in Windows 7 or Vista? If you have multiple accounts including one with administrator privileges in Windows 7 / Vista, then you can set access privileges for individual folders.
Read more

Entrepreneur Magazine Shares 10 Reasons for Small Businesses to Use Windows 7

Editor — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 03:59:14 +0000

Entrepreneur Magazine‘s Scott Steinberg shares in his online column Top Ten reasons why Small Businesses should use Windows 7. Among them: lower system requirements than Vista, better multitasking, and enhanced security. And while he says not everything is perfect (for instance, confusing multiple versions, and separate download and installs for email and calendar programs) he says “Windows 7 provides a welcome evolutionary step forward for the platform, significantly improving security, stability and everyday convenience.”

Also check out an online slideshow from bMighty.com which shows 10 Windows 7 Features SMBs Should Love which provides a more visual guide for businesses evaluating whether to upgrade to the new Windows Operating System.

Need help evaluating or migrating to Windows 7 for your business? Contact us today!

Related articles:

Transfer files and settings from XP to Windows 7 (helpdeskgeek.com)
Windows 7 may be secure, but are Windows users safe? (infoworld.com)
How To Reduce Aero Peek’s Delay Time (techie-buzz.com)

Windows 7: Everything that Vista Was Supposed To Be

Editor — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 08:23:39 +0000

Highly respected technology writer Walt Mossberg from the Wall Street Journal calls Windows 7, “A Windows to Help You Forget” – and with good cause.

We all remember Vista and the horror it continues to be for users. Expected to be a welcome upgrade from Windows XP, Vista was instead, from the very beginning, plagued with problems and all sorts of bugs, and was only slightly made more palatable when the Service Pack 1 was released. Many opted to stick with the more ancient yet much more reliable Windows XP and wait for better things to come.

And come it did. With Windows 7, Microsoft has produced the operating system that many thought Vista would be, leaving the predecessor a memory most would rather not revisit. Faster, lighter, simpler, and easier to use, reviewers have compared this recent instalment of Microsoft’s flagship operating system to a more efficient and generally accepted-to-be-better OS: Mac OS X. While Microsoft does have a stake in Apple, it doesn’t erase the fact that the two have for years been – and continue to be – the most bitter of rivals. With the release of Windows 7, the competition has become very stiff indeed.

Mossberg writes, “In recent years, I, like many other reviewers, have argued that Apple’s Mac OS X operating system is much better than Windows. That’s no longer true. Now, however, it’s much more of a toss-up between the two rivals. Windows 7 beats the Mac OS in some areas, such as better previews and navigation right from the taskbar, easier organization of open windows on the desktop and touch-screen capabilities. So Apple will have to scramble now that the gift of a flawed Vista has been replaced with a reliable, elegant version of Windows.”

Key features of Windows 7 include UI and visual improvements to the taskbar, desktop, file, and networking systems. The overall speed of the OS has also been improved over Vista, which required a lot of hardware to run properly. Now, Windows 7 users are treated to much lighter spec requirements to make the OS run smoothly. Compatibility, especially with third party programs, has also been enhanced, with some touch screen features available for compatible hardware.

In a nutshell, Windows 7 is what Windows Vista was supposed to be in the first place. And because there’s no sense in crying over spilled milk, Microsoft has whipped up quite the replacement mix this time around. And we mean that in a good way.

To read Walt Mossberg’s full review, go to: http://ptech.allthingsd.com/20091007/a-windows-to-help-you-forget/.

5 Things to Love about Windows 7

Editor — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 07:50:00 +0000

The recent release of Windows 7 has seen much more good than bad – which cannot be said for its predecessor, Windows Vista. Even in the early stages of testing, many were impressed with the improvements Microsoft included in this relatively early upgrade to its OS, and many were hopeful that this time around, Windows would not be such a pain to use. And they were not disappointed.

Here are a few things you’ll love about Windows 7:

1. Faster boot up times

Vista was plagued with slow boot times, owing to its demand for high-end hardware in order to function smoothly. Windows 7, on the other hand, does more with less.

2. Lighter spec requirements

Speaking of hardware requirements and more for less, Windows 7 needs less power from your rig to function properly. This means that even hardware systems with bareback specs can run Windows 7 decently.

3. A new taskbar

The new taskbar is a combination of the old taskbar and the quick-launch icons of previous instalments. Frequently used programs are pinned as icons onto the taskbar, and can be used as both a launcher and as a preview for any running windows under that program.

4. File organization

The file system in Windows 7 is more unified now, and enables you to group similar programs together regardless of which hard disk it lives on.

5. Less nagging

One of the most annoying features of Windows Vista was the perpetual reminders about this and that mundane task. Windows 7 lets you configure the warnings to pop up only for issues you feel are important. UAC (User Account Control) also adopts this principle, eliminating that annoying Vista permissions window that popped up even for the most ordinary procedure.

Ready to upgrade to Windows 7?

Editor — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 07:39:53 +0000

If you’re excited about upgrading to Windows 7, you’re not alone. Reactions are coming in from people who have tried the new operating system and so far, the reviews have been positive. From the new and improved UI, to enhanced features such as Live Taskbar previews, easier file sharing, wider hardware support and others, Microsoft has made the upgrade compelling for many Windows users, especially those who skipped Vista and held on to XP.

If you’re using an older computer running Windows XP, we suggest you first head over to Microsoft’s Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor. After downloading the free tool, run it to scan your PC for potential issues with your hardware, devices, and installed programs. The tool will recommend actions you should take before you upgrade.
If your PC is running Windows Vista without problems, chances are it’s ready to run Windows 7. If you bought your copy of Vista or a PC running Vista after June 26, 2009, you might be qualified for a special upgrade offer to Windows 7, so make Microsoft’s official Windows 7 Upgrade and Migration page your first stop to find out.
Once you’re ready to take the plunge, get ready to do some homework first. Just like Vista, Windows 7 comes in different editions. Weigh your options and find out which edition is right for you. Also, PC World has put together a nice article on the five things you should know before upgrading to Windows 7 from XP. For a more detailed guide, visit Engadget blog’s excellent post on how to install Windows 7 and live to tell about it.

If you find the process too complicated, don’t have the time, or if you’re thinking of upgrading many computers, why not contact us? We can help you sort out your options and ensure a smooth upgrade.

Related articles:

Seven things to know about Windows 7 (cnn.com)
27 Takes on Windows 7 [Roundups] (gizmodo.com)
Windows 7 Launch, what the Experts say + Microsoft store grand opening. (domkop.co.za)

Windows 7 Will Have Better Support for WindowsXP-only Applications

Editor — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:08:38 +0000

Microsoft recently announced the availability of the Release Candidate for Windows XP Mode. According to Microsoft, this release was specifically designed to ease the migration path for small to medium-sized businesses by providing additional compatibility for their older applications that may not be compatible with Windows Vista or the upcoming Windows 7.

Windows XP mode runs a virtualized instance of Windows XP in Windows 7, and requires a PC equipped with additional 1 GB of RAM, 15 GB of available disk space, and a processor capable of hardware virtualization with AMD-V or Intel VT turned on in the BIOS. Because of these system requirements, older PCs are not able to run the software.

In the blog post by the Windows 7 Development team, they suggest that users first try the Native Windows 7 mode when running their applications before resorting to Windows XP mode. Windows XP Mode was developed to address some users’ concerns about compatibility, considering that Windows 7 uses the same kernel as Windows Vista. Some businesses had been holding back from upgrading their operating systems since some business applications built for XP proved incompatible with Vista.

Windows XP Release Candidate will work with both the RC and RTM (Release To Manufacturing) versions of Windows 7. If you need more information, please contact us today and we’ll assess whether you can safely upgrade to the new release of Windows 7, or you need Windows XP compatibility mode for your business applications.

Related articles:

Windows 7 Allows Easy Upgrades

Editor — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 03:50:40 +0000

Microsoft recently announced that Windows 7 will include a feature to allow instant upgrades from lower editions of Windows 7 to a higher edition (i.e., from Starter to Home Premium) with the click of a button. The feature, called “Windows Anytime Upgrade” or WAU, will make the process of upgrading much simpler and more convenient than before.

Typical scenarios for upgrading include:

Users running Windows 7 Starter Edition on their netbooks, who wish to upgrade to Home Premium to take advantage of Aero Peek and other enhanced functionality from their OS such as Taskbar Previews. Desktop themes are also enabled, and so is Remote Media Streaming.
Users running Home Premium on their laptops who wish to connect to their office network’s domain or run their old custom business applications using Windows XP Mode can upgrade to Professional.
Users running Home Premium or Professional who want to encrypt and secure their USB devices.

With Microsoft’s early announcements of pricing and upgrade options for the upcoming Windows 7 release, you have the opportunity to plan now for the investment strategy you will use when the time comes to upgrade. If you need information or advice about your options, don’t hesitate to call us.

Related articles:

Upgrading to Windows 7 from Windows XP?

Editor — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 03:49:30 +0000

Information Week has posted a helpful guide to assist those planning to upgrade to the upcoming release of Microsoft Windows 7 on their existing Windows XP machine. Long story short: there is no direct upgrade from XP to Windows 7. You can’t simply insert the Windows 7 installation DVD, upgrade your running XP installation, and have all your programs and data remain intact.

However, this article does explain what you can do, including any of the following:

Install a copy of Windows 7 on the same computer, in parallel with your existing XP install.
Install a copy of Windows 7 on the same computer and replace your existing XP install entirely.
Obtain an entirely new computer with 7 installed, and migrate your existing XP data and application settings to it.

To learn more, visit Information Week. If you need help with preparing your business for Windows 7, contact us – we are here to help.

Related articles:

Microsoft Announces Windows 7 Pricing

Derek Brown — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 08:23:26 +0000

Microsoft has finally announced the pricing for the much anticipated new version of its flagship product, Microsoft Windows, expected to go on sale this October. Users will be pleasantly surprised that Microsoft has announced aggressive promotional pricing for the product and its different editions.

According to the Windows team blog, estimated retail prices for the upgrade packaged retail product of Windows 7 in the US are:

Windows 7 Home Premium (Upgrade): $119.99
Windows 7 Professional (Upgrade): $199.99
Windows 7 Ultimate (Upgrade): $219.99

Estimated retail prices for full packaged retail product of Windows 7 in the US are:

Windows 7 Home Premium (Full): $199.99
Windows 7 Professional (Full): $299.99
Windows 7 Ultimate (Full): $319.99

The Windows 7 Home Premium full retail product is $40.00 less than today’s Windows Vista Home Premium price.

Pre-orders will be limited, and Microsoft has not commented yet on what the supply limitations will be. Pre-orders will launch Friday, June 26 – July 11 in the US, Canada, and Japan, ending sooner if supplies are depleted. The UK, France, and Germany preorders launch July 15 – August 14, also ending sooner if supplies are depleted. Microsoft has launched a new website where users can find more information about upgrade offers.

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Dual Boot Windows 7 and Vista on One Machine

Derek Brown — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 07:56:47 +0000

Excited about Windows 7 but unsure if you want to replace your existing Vista installation? Worried about potential compatibility and driver problems with the Windows 7 beta or release candidate? Why not install both on the same machine? Microsoft has posted an interesting article on how to have both Vista and the upcoming Windows 7 Beta or Release Candidate on the same machine by dual booting from one operating system to the other.

Be sure to check out the system requirements for Windows 7 ensure your system is up to the challenge. Generally speaking, if your system can handle Vista then it will likely have no problem with Windows 7; however, you’ll need ample space on your hard drive to have both running. Check out the article at Microsoft’s Technet website. Not sure how (or why) to do it? Contact us – we can help!

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The Scoop on Windows 7

Derek Brown — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 06:57:34 +0000

Microsoft Windows 7 will be in stores October 22, but surprisingly few details of its features have been released. Thankfully, Ed Bott, a ZDNet blogger, researched it for his readers. We now know that, like its predecessor Vista, Windows 7 will ship with different editions: Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate/Enterprise, and the new Starter Edition, specifically for Netbooks. All share the same enhancements in speed, performance, and security, as well as many UI enhancements and new applications such as Internet Explorer 8 and Windows Media Player 12. The entry-level editions lack support for business-specific features such as encryption, virtualization, and the ability to join a domain, and limited customization options (lack of support for the Aero interface, for example). The premium editions feature interesting new add-ons such as support for Touch Applications. Vista customers will be happy to know that Microsoft announced an upgrade program for customers who have purchased Vista before Windows 7′s release. Want to know if Windows 7 will benefit your business? Give us a call today and we’ll help you decide. Related articles:

Windows 7 – It’s like Vista, only less annoying