Windows 7 is finally here. Windows 7 has proven to be significant improvement over Windows Vista. Windows 7 is faster, uses RAM more efficiently, and will run your older programs with XP Mode (available on Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate only). Here is a summary of the various editions to help you in deciding which is best for you.

Windows 7 Home Premium Edition ($119.99)

• Improved Desktop Navigation: Shake, Peek and Snap
• Redesigned taskbar is smarter and removes clutter
• More wallpapers and improved desktop gadgets
  
• Programs start faster and more efficient memory usage
  
• Enhanced Windows Search for finding documents faster
• Windows Media Center for recording TV shows (requires additional hardware)
• Watch movies or listen to music through remote streaming
  
• Create home network to share files and printers with HomeGroup

Windows 7 Professional Edition ($199.99)

• All the features of Windows 7 Home Premium, plus,
• Compatible with older program with Windows XP Mode
• Domain Join for secure networking in company networks
• Backup your data over your network

Windows 7 Ultimate Edition ($219.99)

• All the features of Windows 7 Professional and Home Premium, plus,
• BitLocker technology protects your desktop, notebook and portable device data against theft or loss
• Choose to work in any of 35 supported languages

Recommendations
We recommend that most users in the business environment choose Windows 7 Professional. You probably want the Windows Ultimate Edition for the BitLocker feature if you are highly mobile with your notebook or USB storage devices.

If you want to upgrade to Windows 7 and your current PC is over 3 years old, then your best options is to buy a new PC with Windows 7 preinstalled. AXICOM recommends HP desktop PCs, notebooks, and servers.

If your PC is newer, you may want to choose to purchase Windows 7 software and upgrade your PC rather than buy a new PC. But this requires that you verify that your PC meets the hardware requirements for Windows 7. The upgrade process requires that you backup all your data, erase your hard drive, install Windows 7, install all your applications, and restore your data. It's hardly an easy procedure.

Conclusion
Which ever edition you choose or the upgrade path you take, Windows 7 is a sound business decision. Contact AXICOM for assistance in purchasing a new PC or upgrading your existing PC.

We be offering a seminar "Windows 7:Find out what the Fuss is All About!" on November 12 at our office in Westlake Village, California. Visit AXICOM Events for details and registration.