Day: August 13, 2009

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: Windows 7 RTM reviewed For Some, Move To Windows 7 Will Be Tough Windows 7 pricing announced: cheaper than Vista Microsoft announces pricing for Windows 7 family pack, upgrading

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: For Some, Move To Windows 7 Will Be Tough Windows 7 RTM reviewed Backwards compatibility can kill you