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Windows 7: everything you need to know

Posted on 16 Oct 2009 at 14:33

Discover all the new Windows 7 features, follow our How To tutorials and don't pay a penny more than you have to with our comprehensive guide

Windows 7 promises to be the most popular Microsoft operating system since the launch of the game-changing Windows 95.

More than eight-million people worldwide have participated in the Windows 7 beta schemes (700,000 of those in the UK) and many more are watching with keen interest, wondering whether Microsoft can pull off a spectacular recovery after the disappointment of Vista.

So what's so special about Windows 7? What should you look out for if you're planning to upgrade to the new operating system? And how do you take advantage of Windows 7's numerous new tools? This feature has all the answers.

THE DEFINITIVE REVIEW

Don't splash out before you've read our comprehensive guide to every single edition of the Windows 7 line-up. Our comprehensive Windows 7 overview will tell you about the common features you'll find in every edition. Click on the individual editions to find out about their specific features:

Windows 7 overview

Windows 7 Starter edition

Windows 7 Home Premium

Windows 7 Professional

Windows 7 Enterprise

Windows 7 Ultimate

Should you go for 64-bit Windows 7?

STEP-BY-STEP INSTALLATION GUIDES

If you're installing Windows 7 on an existing PC, we'll show you how to perform a seamless upgrade and keep all your data intact. This is particularly important for Windows XP users, who can't perform an in-place upgrade.

How to move from Vista to Windows 7

How to move from XP to Windows 7

THE NEW FEATURES

Find out how Windows 7 will change your work, home and leisure life with our in-depth guide to the new operating system

Home

Mobile

Work

Gamers and enthusiasts

Interface

Click here to read our countdown of the 30 best features in Windows 7

BUYING ADVICE

If you're planning on upgrading your PC to Windows 7, make sure you don't end up paying more than you need to. The following articles should help you decide on the right version for your needs.

Students get Windows 7 for only £30

Microsoft confirms £150 Windows 7 Family Pack

How to buy Windows 7 for £50 less: the truth about OEM versions

The "free" Windows 7 upgrades that cost £28

HOW TO GUIDES

So, you've installed Windows 7 on your PC, what next? Our step-by-step tutorials will show you how to get the most out of the next-generation operating system.

How to stream music over the internet with Windows 7

How to set up Windows 7 Libraries

How to set up a Windows 7 HomeGroup

How to install Windows 7 to a virtual hard disk

How to set up a Windows 7 HomeGroup

How to make the Windows 7 taskbar better in an instant

How to boost the performance of Windows 7’s XP Mode

How to create your own search engine in Windows 7

Author: Barry Collins