Windows 7
What you need to know when considering Windows 7
Most people have heard of Windows 7 by now, as it was released in the summer of 2009. Some of you
have it on new PCs purchased in the past few months. It is quickly becoming the norm on new PCs, as Windows XP has
officially been discontinued.
While we've had some clients that begun to move to Windows 7, most have so far stayed on Windows XP. Sage BusinessVision
is supported on Windows 7, but only the most recent version, Sage BusinessVision 2010. Some clients have version 2009 running
on Windows 7, knowing there are limitations, but if you have or want Windows 7, we recommend upgrading to BusinessVision 2010.
Should I or Shouldn't I?
These are some of the considerations for deciding whether to go with Windows 7 or Vista on a new PC,
or whether to exercise those Downgrade Rights and stick with XP for now.
Considerations Before Deciding on Windows 7
- Does my older software still un on Windows 7 ? Some will, some won't.
For example, the 2009 version of Sage BusinessVision will run on Vista, but is not 100%
compatible with Windows 7; older versions of BusinessVision have trouble even on Vista,
due to issues between Pervasive and Vista / Windows 7
- Do I have the hardware to run it? If your PC is less than a year old (or you're getting a new one), chances are
you'll be OK - but you need to check the specs first, as Windows 7, while faster than Vista, is still very hardware-hungry
- Is there any real benefit? Well, yes and no. The security's far better, and the system is very stable and even
more resistant to crashes than XP. But many people view Windows 7 as a prettier face on an old operating system - it's
not, but that's how they see it
- Do you have anyone who can support it? Windows 7 is now pretty well established, so there are people who are
knowledgeable. Our network specialists are quite capable of supporting Windows 7
- Do you have the right version for business use? The number of flavours of Windows 7 is more than a little daunting to most, so
be sure to check that it will be compatible with your office network. Basically, if the version has "Home" in it, that's
not the one you should be using in a business environment
Conclusion
The long and short of it is that both Vista and Windows 7 each have hundreds - actually, thousands - of improvements
over Windows XP. The vast majority of those are things the average user will never encounter or recognize,
or they're classed as "eye candy" by users and administrators alike.
Compatibility issues still exist with hardware and software, and the learning curve can be a little steep. So, in the end,
if you're getting a new system and it comes with Windows 7, fine (just make sure it's a business version to work with your network).
Go with it. If you can stay with Old Faithful XP Pro, stay.