Windows 7
From Micropedia
| |
 Windows 7 Release Candidate 1 | |
| Company/ developer: | Microsoft |
| OS family: | Windows NT |
| Source model: | Closed Source |
| Stable release: | Template:Latest stable release/Windows 7 [+/-] |
| Preview release: | NT Version 6.1.6574 (Milestone 1) (April 20, 2008) [+/-] |
| Kernel type: | Hybrid Kernel |
| Default user interface: | Aero |
| License: | Prosparity |
| Working state: | Release Candidate |
| Website: | Windows 7 Official Site |
Windows 7 (formerly codenamed Blackcomb and Vienna) will be the next version of Microsoft Windows. Currently in the Release Candidate stage, the operating system is due to be released on October 22nd 2009 [1].
Based on its predecessor Windows Vista, Windows 7 is more a series of improvements than a complete rewrite of the operating system. The advantage of this is almost complete compatibility with hardware and software for Vista.
Major new features include significant multi-touch capability and improved performance. The user interface is still Windows Aero, but has undergone a number of changes, most notably the new taskbar.
The user will be able to disable more Windows components than previously, now including: Internet Explorer 8, Windows Media Player, Windows Media Center, Windows Search, and the Windows Gadget Platform.
[edit] Versions
Windows 7 will be available in six different editions. Only Home Premium and Professional editions will be widely available at retail. All editions and features of Windows 7 will be stored on the machine, allowing users to upgrade at any time for a fee. Microsoft has not yet announced pricing information or volume licensing details.
- Home Premium - The main home edition, containing Media Center, touch and
- Professional - Targeted at enthusiasts, includes additional features such as Remote Desktop and being part of a domain.
- Starter - A very limited OS, without Aero or 64-bit, only available pre-installed. The 3-application limit from Vista has been removed.
- Home Basic - Only available in "emerging markets", excludes some features such as Media Centre and parts of Aero.
- Enterprise - Contains all features, but only distributed through Software Assurance contracts.
- Ultimate - Contains all features, availalable to home users on an individual basis. Windows Ultimate Extras have been discontinued from Vista.
In Europe, all editions of Windows 7 will be sold without Internet Explorer. These versions will include an E designation in the name, ie "Windows 7 Home Premium E".
