Which Version of Windows 7 is Right for Me?

by DoItYourself Staff

Windows 7 is the latest version of the Windows operating system. It was released in 2009 as a replacement for the Windows Vista system. It is designed to meet the expectations of personal computer users who use Microsoft-based computers for their computing needs. Windows 7 is meant to be competitive with the Apple operating system.

Which Windows 7 Version is Right for You?

The version of Windows 7 that is right for you depends on your computing needs. There are 3 versions of Windows 7 that are available for purchase. Windows 7 Home Premium Edition (HPE), Windows 7 Professional Edition (PE) and the Windows 7 Ultimate Edition (UE) are the versions that are available.

Cost for Windows 7

If you are upgrading from Windows Vista and XP to Windows 7, the cost of the different versions are:

HPE: $119.99
PE: $199.99
UE: $219.99

If you have an older version of Windows running on your computer, you will need to spend much more to purchase the full installation version of Windows 7. Be aware that XP users will need to back up their files before upgrading to Windows 7, since the software cannot transfer XP files like it does for Windows 7.

Selecting the Best System for Your Computer

If your computing needs are limited to the following functions:

Improved desktop navigation to make everyday tasks easier.
Faster program start-up.
Use Internet Explorer 8 web browser for a faster, easier and safer internet experience.
Watch free television shows on your computer.
Create home networking groups.

You should purchase the Windows 7 Home Premium edition.

If your computing needs also include the following tasks in addition to those listed above:

Run Windows XP productivity programs in Windows XP mode.
Connect to a company’s network using the Domain Join.
Use the full system backup and restore to back up any home and business network.

The Windows 7 Professional edition is the version that is right for your computing needs.

In addition to the functions listed for HPE and PE, if your computing needs also include:

Data protection against loss and theft with BitLocker.
Switch between 35 different languages.

You should look into acquiring the Windows 7 Premium edition.

Making the Determination for Windows 7

If you are making the determination as to which version of Windows 7 may be right for you, over say an Apple computer running on the Leopard operating system, look at the current system that you are using. Does your computer have the system requirements necessary to operate the Windows 7 version you want? What additional hardware will I need to purchase in order to properly run Windows 7 on my computer? Will I experience problems and issues with Windows 7 that will subject my computer to constant updates and fixes?

These questions should be answered before committing financial resources toward the purchase of a Windows 7 operating system. Ask questions before you buy, and make sure that it will work as you need it to.