What does Windows 7 mean? Which edition should I choose for home use? Is it worth updating the OS to the latest version?

Any user who knows at least something about computers is well aware that the Windows 7 operating system from Microsoft has several versions. According to some, the company did this on purpose, since the price for each edition is different. And the higher the level of “coolness” of the OS, the higher the price. But in fact, different versions of Windows 7 are needed for certain tasks. For example, for those who use the operating system exclusively for music and movies, there is no point in purchasing the Pro version. The usual Home will be enough. But in order for the last doubts to dissipate, it is necessary to analyze each edition in detail. And that's what we'll do now.

General classification of Windows editions

Currently, there are several versions of Windows 7: Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate. Each of them has its own parameters and functions. The number of enabled options depends on the distribution itself. Naturally, the Ultimate version (aka “Maximum”) is considered the “coolest” one. This same edition costs more than all the others. It is worth noting that the corporate version of the "seven" (Enterprise) is not available for Russia and the CIS countries. The reason for this “disrespect” for domestic companies is unknown. But there are also various assemblies of the "seven" for different needs and computers. As a rule, such assemblies are pirated. An example is Windows 7 Lite - a version created specifically for low-power computers. However, let's start reviewing the various editions of Windows. First on the list is Starter Edition. That's where we'll start.

Windows 7 Starter

As the name suggests, this operating system is initial version. It only has a 32-bit architecture, can only use one language, and lacks many options. So, for example, playback of H.265 and MPEG-2 video formats is not available for this OS. The Aero desktop with beautiful effects is also not here. Such a system is usually installed on netbooks and laptops when sold. Is it worth mentioning that a license for this edition of Windows costs a penny? There is definitely nothing to pay for here. Microsoft Windows 7 version has never looked so poor. It is not clear what the company was guided by when releasing this parody of the operating system. It is not surprising that many users, after purchasing a laptop, quickly change the pre-installed OS to a full-fledged one (albeit a pirated one). In general, Starter is the initial set of functions needed to get started. And nothing more.

The entry-level operating system cannot boast of rich functionality. But it installs perfectly on low-power PCs. This OS is great suitable for those users who did not have time to update their computer. This is the initial edition of Windows 7. The full version requires support from Microsoft in the form of weekly updates. True, they will also be severely limited in functionality. But the license for this version of Windows is inexpensive. There must be at least something pleasant about it. Let's move on to the next edition.

Home Basic

It's also called "Home Basic". In terms of functionality, it is not very different from the initial edition, but there are some changes. For example, there is Windows 7 64 Russian version. It's not exactly a dramatic change, but 64-bit systems work much better with modern equipment. It is also possible to play videos of any format. However, there is still no Aero interface. Also missing general access to the Internet and preview windows in the taskbar. This version of Windows is being shipped to developing countries. These include Russia and the CIS countries at Microsoft. This edition of the operating system is designed for weak computers and laptops.

Home basic version"Windows 7" is good for housewives who, apart from TV series and "Odnoklassniki", do not need anything else. It is not suitable for serious users. A significant disadvantage is also the inability to run old applications. Please use only new ones. Yes, and I would like to see the proprietary “Aero” interface in this edition. But he’s still not there. The home base edition of Windows 7 is definitely not worth the money Microsoft is asking for it. Therefore, let's move on to other editions of the operating system.

Home Premium

This edition of the operating system already looks like something. The Russian version of Windows 7 Home Premium has an Aero interface and a built-in media center. There is also support for all multimedia files, an adequate Explorer menu and all the delights of Windows themes (including Aero Peak, Shake and other effects). There is support for creating user groups and multi-profile Internet access. This version of the operating system is quite suitable for use on home computer or laptop. Of course, if you do not need to solve any special problems. It is worth noting that this version has good performance. It can be used as a gaming platform. For the average user, this edition of Windows is just what you need. And there is absolutely no need to look for other versions of Windows 7. But some users think differently.

It is worth noting that most domestic retailers install Windows 7 Home Premium on the laptops they sell. This decision is due to the fact that sellers need to demonstrate all the capabilities of the laptop. And the Aero interface consumes a lot system resources. Therefore, if the laptop reproduces all the effects without difficulty, then it is good and should be taken. Here's what retailers use unlicensed versions No one cares about Windows anymore. A novice user cannot distinguish Windows 7 from Vista. What can we say about the license? Nevertheless, on the part of sellers, the use of unlicensed software is somehow unsightly. And what’s more, it’s criminal.

Professional

Version for "professionals". At the time of Windows XP, this edition was considered the most advanced. But times are changing. And now she is just one of many. The main feature of this edition is the presence of built-in software for file encryption. The full version of Windows 7 Professional also supports automatic creation of system restore points, the ability to run legacy programs using the system compatibility option, and the ability to use remote access to the computer. The professional version also boasts wider multimedia capabilities. This operating system is already more attractive than other “stripped-down” editions. However, its license costs a lot. However, there are a bunch of builds with different versions on torrents.

The professional edition of Windows 7 is ideal for business. The whole point here is the ability to encrypt data and the normal operation of the system recovery utility. Doing business requires protecting user data at the highest level. Therefore, there is no way to do without encryption. Also, the user must be guaranteed complete safety of his data. And if Windows unexpectedly crashes (and this often happens with Microsoft products), then you can quickly restore the operating system using the recovery utility without losing important data. However, there are several other versions of Windows that deserve attention.

Ultimate

She is also "Maximum". As the name suggests, it should have everything possible. And this is true. This edition allows you to copy content to network drives, has even greater multimedia capabilities, includes BitLocker, can work with encryption, includes more than thirty language packs and has a User Account Control option (those annoying pop-ups that appear when attempt to install any program and are asked to confirm the action). Windows 7 64, the latest version of the "Ultimate" edition, works much better with the hardware, is able to see a fairly large amount of RAM and has certain tweaks system registry, designed for performance. Maximum edition The operating system gives the user access to all the functions of the Seven. But the license is quite expensive. It's unfortunate.

The maximum edition of Windows 7 is ideal for upgrading, overclocking and other abuses of your computer. It is this version of the operating system that supports new hardware. By the way, programs for overclocking the processor and video card will not work on operating systems of other editions. It is unknown why. Therefore, true gamers prefer the “Maximum” version of Windows 7. AND high price a licensed product doesn’t stop them at all. Apparently, this is where some fanaticism of game lovers manifests itself.

Enterprise

Corporate edition, the same one that is not produced for Russia. It has all the functionality of the "Maximum" version. However, it also has additional network functionality. But its potential is revealed only when working in large corporations on a decent number of computers. Is it worth mentioning that a license for this version of Windows costs exorbitant amounts of money? And there are no discounts for bulk purchases. The latest Russian version of Windows 7 Enterprise is a mythical unicorn that does not exist in nature. An operating system of this kind can only be found on torrent trackers in the form of a pirated build. But it's free. However, using pirated assemblies is strongly discouraged, since it is unknown what the creator of the assembly “put” there. It's better to use licensed software. This is the only way to be sure that no one is watching you. Although with the release of “ten” the last statement became quite controversial.

Windows 7 Enterprise edition (latest version) is different increased protection network connections. This is vital for large corporations, since there are quite a lot of attackers who want to take over confidential data. In the USA and Europe, the share of Windows 7 in the corporate segment is still quite high. Despite the fact that the company announced the end of support for the product. But the "seven" will still be alive as long as the corporate sector sits on it. But with the eighth version of Windows, the issue has already been resolved. Just last week, Microsoft management announced that support for versions 8 and 8.1 has officially ended. This is exactly how the company from Redmond is trying to force all users to switch to “Ten”. The same operating system with spyware tendencies.

Which edition should I choose for home use?

It all depends on specific tasks, which will need to be solved using a personal computer. For most users, the Home Premium edition is sufficient. But she doesn’t know how to run old programs at all. In general, it is recommended to set it to "Maximum". Then you won't have to suffer with unsupported applications. Also, using the maximum edition is quite justified from a performance point of view. Yes, and when updating the computer configuration, there will be no problems, since the “Maximum” version works perfectly with the equipment and can detect new components. Let's not forget about the possibility of restoring the system from a checkpoint. Sometimes it is simply necessary. Versions of Windows 7 differ in the set of options and options for working with equipment. That's all. But from the user's perspective, this behavior by Microsoft seems outrageous. This is understandable. Who wants to use a “stripped down” operating system.

However, if you are the owner game server, then all of the above editions (even Windows 7, the latest version) will not suit your needs. Here you will need to install a special version - Server Edition. Although knowledgeable administrators prefer to use server editions of Linux distributions (especially Debian) for these needs. They are more secure, stable and always work correctly with the network. And the latter is very important for the server administrator.

There is also a special assembly - Windows 7 Flash version. There is nothing unusual about her. It's just an operating system that can be installed from a USB drive. Now many people use this installation method, since the reading speed of a USB port is much faster than reading from a regular disk. Moreover, versions of Windows 10 are now distributed by Microsoft itself in digital form for subsequent installation from any drive.

Is it worth updating the OS to the latest version?

This is a controversial issue. Quite recently, a serious vulnerability was discovered in processors (both Intel and AMD). In this regard, Microsoft and the developers of Linux distributions quickly began releasing security updates. And if everything is fine with Linux after the update, then the comrades from Microsoft screwed it up. The latest Russian version of Windows 7 (if you update to it through the Update Center) takes the system to the “blue screen of death”. Here's a security update for you. They also say that Microsoft employs professionals highest level. In operating systems such as Linux or MacOS, such a situation is impossible to even imagine. But these guys were able to distinguish themselves.

Therefore, if you have at the moment Windows 7 is installed, the old version works quite normally and there are no glitches, then don’t even think about upgrading. As a result, you will have to reinstall the entire operating system. Wait a little, and the Redmond programmers will find their mistake and fix it. In the meantime, you can completely sit on the old version. Moreover, if it works quite stably for you. As for processor vulnerabilities, just put it out of your mind. Your computer and personal photos from the sea are of no interest to attackers. You're not a celebrity, right?

Conclusion

So, we looked at various editions of Windows 7. They all differ in options, support for various applications and work with equipment. For home use, "Home Premium" is suitable. Russian version for Windows 7 64 bit is available. But if you need all the features of the operating system, then your choice is the “Maximum” edition. It works best with new hardware, supports large amounts of RAM and can run outdated programs in compatibility mode with Windows XP. It has only one drawback - the high cost of the license. But you can pay for such rich functionality.

Start Menu

All OS versions include 50 new fonts. Existing fonts have been modified to display all characters correctly. Windows 7 is the first version of Windows to include more fonts to display non-Latin characters than to display Latin ones. The font control panel has also been improved - by default, it will display only those fonts for which the layout is installed in the system.

Windows 7 supports folder aliases internally. For example, the folder Program Files in some localized versions of Windows it was translated and displayed with the translated name, but remained English at the file system level. Also, the system (except for the Windows 7 Starter version) has about 120 built-in background images, unique for each country and language version. Thus, the Russian version includes the “Russia” theme with six unique high-resolution wallpapers.

An additional advantage of Windows 7 is closer integration with driver manufacturers. Most drivers are detected automatically, and in 90% of cases, backward compatibility with Windows Vista drivers is maintained.

Windows 7 also improved compatibility with older applications, some of which were unable to run on Windows Vista. This is especially true for older games developed for Windows XP. Windows 7 also introduced Windows XP Mode, which allows you to run older applications in a Windows XP virtual machine, which provides almost complete support for older applications.

Network technology Branch Cache allows you to cache the content of Internet traffic. If a user on the local network needs a file that has already been downloaded by someone on his network, he can get it from the local cache storage, rather than using a channel with limited bandwidth. The technology is designed for large networks and is offered for implementation in enterprises as part of the Corporate and Maximum versions of the OS.

Taskbar

The changes also affected the taskbar. It is now enlarged by 10 pixels and has an updated appearance. Also, the panel contains only icons without labels, similar to the Dock on Mac OS X. The taskbar can be made the same as in Windows Vista in “Properties”. In the updated panel, under the “Clock” there is also the current date. In the right corner there is a button “Collapse all windows”. It’s curious, but when you hover the cursor over the icon of an open application, the backlight changes color; if, for example, the icon is red, then the backlight is red. Also, the taskbar can be made not only at the bottom, but also moved to the left, right and even up. Also, if in the taskbar property you check the boxes “Lock the taskbar” and “Use small icons”, and in the “Taskbar buttons” menu Select "Group when the taskbar is full" and the taskbar will look like Windows view Vista.

Safety

IN Windows 7 implemented more flexible setup User Account Control (UAC), which, unlike Windows Vista, has two more intermediate states - “Notify only when programs try to make changes to the computer” (default position), “Notify only when programs try to make changes to the computer (not darken the desktop)".

Changes have been made to the BitLocker encryption technology and the function of encrypting removable media has been added BitLocker to go, which allows you to encrypt removable media, even in the absence of a TPM module.

Added the ability to protect data on USB drives using Enhanced Storage.

Snap- Similar to Shake function Aero Snap allows you to move the mouse to expand the window to half the screen, the entire screen, or only along the vertical axis.

Design styles

Windows 7 supports several design options user interface:

Windows Aero- original design style with transparent multi-color window frames, used by default. Available in the Home Advanced edition and higher.

Windows 7 - simplified style- Windows Aero with some features disabled (for example, window transparency, Windows Flip 3D, AeroPeek). System requirements remain the same as Windows Aero. Available in all editions of Windows 7 and is the main one in the Starter edition. This style also applies when running applications in compatibility mode.

Classical- minimum system requirements, window design in the style of the “classic” Windows 2000 theme. Various available color schemes, in particular, similar to Windows 2000 schemes; the user can create his own color schemes.

Removed Components

Applications developed for Windows Vista were excluded from Windows 7: Inkball, DreamScene, Ultimate Extras, applications that have analogues in Windows Live (Windows Mail, Windows Calendar, etc.), Microsoft Agent technology, Windows Meeting Space. The option to return to the classic menu has disappeared from the Start menu, as has the automatic docking of the browser and email client.

Hardware requirements

Windows 7, although it contains an extensive database of drivers for many devices, supports fewer of them compared to Windows XP. In particular, the database does not contain drivers for many devices released before 2005. On the one hand, this is due to Windows Aero technology, which requires a video adapter with at least 128 MB of memory and support for DirectX 9.0 (Shader Model 2.0), on the other hand, drivers for Geforce FX series video cards (5200-5900) are also not included in the kit despite the fact that this generation already supports DirectX 9.0. Also, the package does not include drivers for many outdated models. sound cards and most built-in AC97 audio codecs.

Although Windows 7 officially requires at least 1 GB of RAM to install, this system successfully installed on computers with a smaller volume, for example, 512 MB (but for stable operation you need to turn off graphic effects), because Windows 7 was created on the basis of the previous OS Windows Vista, which officially required 512 MB of RAM.

In addition, pirated Lite versions of Windows, installed on computers with 128-256 MB of RAM, have become quite widespread on the Internet ( official versions Windows requires at least 512 MB of RAM and refuses to install with less).

Backward Compatibility

However, within 5 years it is planned to replace the built-in Internet Explorer with an optional one. Currently this scheme agreed with the European Commission.

All editions, except the initial one, exist in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.

The maximum amount of RAM for 32-bit versions is limited to 4 GB, the Initial edition supports up to 2 GB. However, in practice, a smaller volume is often available to the user; due to hardware limitations, it is often impossible to implement the PAE mode function. Support for larger memory sizes is only available for 64-bit versions. . They support up to 8 GB (“Home Basic”), up to 16 GB (“Home Advanced”), all older versions can address up to 192 GB of RAM.

A free 90-day trial of Windows 7 Enterprise is available for IT professionals who want to get started with Windows 7 within their organization. From January 31, 2013, it will no longer be possible to activate it.

Comparison Windows versions 7 (Microsoft Virtual PC image file)

Function / Edition	Initial\Starter	Home Basic	Home Extended \ Home Premium	Professional	Corporate\Enterprise	Maximum\Ultimate
Function / Edition	Sale only under OEM licenses	Retail sales and OEM licenses (only in emerging markets and Russian)		Retail sales, OEM and corporate licenses	Sold only under corporate licenses	Retail sales and OEM licenses
End of support	14.01.2020	14.01.2020	14.01.2020	14.01.2020	14.01.2020	14.01.2020
Availability of 64-bit version	No	Template:Yes (only under OEM license)	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Maximum RAM size (for 64-bit versions)	2 GB (for 32-bit version)	8 GB	16 GB	192 GB	192 GB	192 GB
Windows Recovery Center	No domain support	No domain support	No domain support	Yes	Yes	Yes
Home Group feature (create and join a group)	Join only	Join only	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Windows Aero interface	No	Basic theme only	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Multiple monitor support	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Quickly switch between users	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Ability to change the desktop background	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Desktop Manager	No	No WinFlip 3D support	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Windows Mobility Center	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Multitouch and improved recognition handwriting input	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Windows Media Center	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Additional games	No	No	Yes	Disabled by default	Disabled by default	Yes
Windows XP Emulator	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
EFS (data encryption system)	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Printing based on location information	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Ability to act as a Remote Desktop host	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Connecting to a domain	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Possibility of downgrading to Vista or XP	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Support for multiple physical processors	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
AppLocker	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
BitLocker and BitLocker To Go	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
Branch Cache	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
DirectAccess	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
Subsystem for running Unix applications	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
Multilingual user environment	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
Launching the snap-ins lusrmgr.msc (Local Users and Groups), gpedit.msc (Local Group Policy Editor), secpol.msc (Local Security Policy)	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes

A “Family Pack”, with the right to install on only three computers, costs $150 in the US. Windows 7 Home Premium was selected as the OS edition for the “family” license; the “family” license is not applicable for other editions.

"Family License" is also sold in Russia. Microsoft has repeatedly emphasized the limited supply. Currently, Family Pack has disappeared from retail stores and major online stores, some stores are already selling it for $250-290.

Development history

Code name Blackcomb belonged Windows NT 6.0 operating system that was planned to be the next one after Windows XP. Blackcomb was supposed to be the successor to this OS for both desktop and server workstations. Late 2001 release Blackcomb planned for 2005, and in August 2002 it was announced that the interim version would be Windows Longhorn, which would be a kernel update Windows NT 5.x. During development Windows Longhorn some functions have been added to it Blackcomb and assigned the number 6.0. Blackcomb was surrounded by confusion with some reports that marketing plans had been heavily revised and that it was to be a Windows 6.x server OS, but with improvements.

In March 2006, it became known that the successor to Windows Vista would be Fiji, which was scheduled for release in 2008. In 2008, as a result of complaints from Fijians that the new OS would be named after their country, new information became known about Fiji. According to the Fijians [streamlined expressions] , Ben Green said that in Fiji new television formats will be added, support interactive services and user interface improvements for Windows Media Center. It is likely that the Windows Media Center program included with Windows 7 has already added changes that should have been in Fiji.

Sales

On March 4, 2010, Microsoft announced that it had sold more than 90 million Windows 7 licenses. By April 23, i.e. in just six months, over 100 million were sold copies of Windows 7, making the system Microsoft's fastest-selling system. It had sold over 150 million copies by June 23; as of July 22, 175,000,000 copies of the OS were sold. On October 21, Microsoft announced that it had sold over 240 million copies. Three months later, on January 27, 2011, Microsoft announced total sales of 300 million copies. As of January 19, 2012, Windows 7 has sold over 525 million copies.

Based on worldwide data collected in June 2010 from Windows Update, 46% of computers run Windows 7 64-bit. In April 2010, 77% of computers sold in the United States came with Windows 7 64-bit pre-installed, according to Stephen Baker of the NPD Group.

Reviews of Windows 7 were mostly positive, noting improvements in usability and functionality compared to its predecessor, Windows Vista. CNET gave Windows 7 Home Premium a rating of 4.5 and 5 stars. PC World gives Windows 7 a 9 out of 10 rating and calls it a "Massive Leap Forward" in terms of usability and security, also praising new panel tasks.

Service Packs and Support

This package fixes are not as extensive as service packs for previous versions Windows, especially Windows Vista. This fix pack contains all the updates and patches for Windows 7 that were released at the time of its release, as well as some bug fixes.

On October 25, 2012, it became known that Microsoft does not plan to release a second service pack (SP2) for Windows 7.

Criticism of Windows 7

Immediately after its appearance on the market in 2009, Windows 7 was criticized for slower application performance compared to Windows XP (according to test results by 2-4%). The complication of the OS, resulting in higher system requirements, increased power consumption and a decrease in netbook battery life by 2-8% (and in some cases up to 30%) compared to Windows XP.

There are no known Easter eggs in the final version of Windows 7, although the standard beta wallpaper did contain one (the Betta Splendens fish).

Notes

Mary Jo Foley Microsoft delivers test build of Windows 7-based "Québec" Embedded OS (English). ZDNet (September 3, 2009). Archived from the original on February 5, 2012. Retrieved December 18, 2009.
Steve Ballmer launched Windows 7
As of July 2012, material provided by w3schools.com.
Engineering Windows 7 for a global market
the possibility of multi-touch control was first demonstrated by Microsoft at the annual TechEd’08 conference in Orlando ( see video on YouTube), during the demonstration, system assembly 6.1.6856 was used, as well as an experimental model of a laptop with a multi-touch screen
Windows 7 will not be able to play Blu-ray discs // hwp.ru
No Windows 7 Blu-Ray Support // Windows 7 News
Brian Madden TV episode 4 - Microsoft MVP Summit wrap-up & RDP 7 preview - Brian Madden TV // BrianMadden.com
Microsoft Enhanced Storage
System requirements for Windows 7 OS. Microsoft. Archived from the original on August 15, 2012.
Any optical drive, reading DVD-ROM discs.
One reason we decided not to ship Windows 7 "E" is concerns raised by computer manufacturers and partners. Several are worried about the complexity of changing the version of Windows that we ship in Europe if our ballot screen proposal is ultimately accepted by the Commission and we stop selling Windows 7 "E". Computer manufacturers and our partners also warned that introducing Windows 7 "E", only to later replace it with a version of Windows 7 that includes IE, could confuse consumers about what version of Windows to buy with their PCs. Microsoft scraps Windows 7 "E" version for Europe
Update on Windows 7 in Europe
Microsoft and EU agree on browser selection dialogue
Windows 7 goes on sale. 3DNews.
How much will the volume of available system memory, depends on the devices installed on the computer. However, in order to avoid potential problems with driver compatibility, in 32-bit versions of the system Windows themes Vista limits the total available memory to 3.12 GB. The System Information dialog box in Windows Vista shows less than expected system memory when your computer has 4 GB of RAM.
That 32-bit editions of Windows Vista are limited to 4GB is not because of any physical or technical constraint on 32-bit operating systems. The 32-bit editions of Windows Vista all contain code for using physical memory above 4GB. Microsoft just doesn’t license you to use that code. ...The total amount of memory allowed is taken solely from the license value Kernel-WindowsMaxMemAllowedx86, as read through the undocumented function ZwQueryLicenseValue. The data for this value is a number of MB, so that 0x1000, which is installed for all 32-bit editions of Windows Vista, means 4GB. Licensed Memory in Windows Vista. Experience has shown that the same applies to Windows 7
Windows 7 x86 and 4GB Ram. Or how to enable PAE? - Conference iXBT.com
Physical Address Extension (Windows)
Windows Vista, Windows Server 2003, or Windows Server 2008 may report less memory than you expect
Is four gigabytes of memory an unattainable goal? //iXBT
Windows 7 Enterprise 90-day trial
All Windows 7 Versions--What You Need to Know. ExtremeTech (February 5, 2009). Archived
Thurrott, Paul Windows 7 Product Editions (February 3, 2009). Archived from the original on February 5, 2012. Retrieved February 3, 2009.
Windows 7 Editions - Features on Parade. Softpedia (February 5, 2009). Archived from the original on February 5, 2012. Retrieved February 5, 2009.
Windows 7: Which Edition is Right For You? . PCWorld (February 3, 2009). Archived from the original on February 5, 2012. Retrieved February 5, 2009.

So Microsoft provides multiple versions of Windows 7. Why?

If you look at the full version of Windows 7 Ultimate (Maximum), its price is around $300. This is not so little for common man. Most, having learned the price, immediately begin to be indignant that they will not pay that amount for the OS. But on the other hand, they don’t need all the functions that are in it. That's why versions are produced with a limited set of functions and a correspondingly lower price. However, it is always possible to upgrade to a higher version and gain access to additional features.

Now let's look at the different versions and their capabilities.

Windows 7 Starter- simplifies work with small laptops and other computers with disabilities equipment. This release is designed for users with minimal requirements and combines reliability and speed with a familiar interface. The main features are as follows:

extensive application and service compatibility;
safety, reliability and speed of operation;
Possibility of joining a home group.

This version is not available for retail sale.

Windows 7 Home Basic is an entry-level release that will be sold in some developing countries to customers with inexpensive computers. Windows 7 Home Basic makes accessing frequently used programs and documents faster and easier. The main features are as follows:

active thumbnails;
advanced networking support (wireless computer-to-computer networks and Internet connection sharing);
ability to expand the screen to multiple monitors.

The retail price for this version is about $100.

Windows 7 Home Premium- This best episode for consumers: now the whole world of entertainment is on your computer. You can easily connect to other computers and devices in an interface with a variety of visual effects, designed to simplify and diversify daily tasks. With this release, you can create a home group and share photos, videos, and music. And thanks to the ability to easily connect to Internet TV with Windows Media Center, you can watch TV shows for free from anywhere. In addition to the features available in the above editions, Windows 7 Home Premium includes the following features:

Improved navigation and window customization capabilities thanks to desktop enhancements Microsoft desktop Aero;
the ability to create a homegroup to facilitate file sharing among networked computers and devices;
the ability to watch Internet TV and record TV shows on your computer using Windows Media Center;
remote media streaming and improved support for various media formats.

Windows 7 Home Premium retails for about $150.

Windows 7 Professional- Combines all the business features you need with the entertainment features of Windows 7 Home Premium edition. You'll be able to run a variety of Windows XP productivity programs directly from Windows 7 or using Windows XP mode, and easily restore data with automatic backup capabilities on your home or work network. Connecting to corporate networks has become easier and more secure. This release includes the following additional features:

joining a domain, which allows you to connect to a managed network Windows Server;
extended backup and recovery, which can be used to create a backup copy of an entire system on your home or work network, as well as an encrypted file system data protection;
Windows XP mode for running legacy business applications in Windows environment XP;
print tailored network location, which helps you set different default printers for your home and work networks.

The retail price for this issue is about $200 - $230.

Windows 7 Ultimate is the most complete and powerful release designed for corporate clients and customers who require a full range of capabilities. This release enables you to work productively anywhere, improves security and control, and optimizes PC management. Combines entertainment Windows features 7 Home Premium and business features of Windows 7 Professional, plus a flexible interface with support different languages. In addition to the previously listed features, this release includes the following:

disk encryption and Microsoft BitLocker and BitLocker To Go data protection on internal and external drives and storage devices;
DirectAccess technology for more secure connections to corporate network via the Internet;
Microsoft BranchCache technology, which provides accelerated access to content from remote branch file and web servers;
Microsoft AppLocker technology, which prevents unauthorized software from running on employee computers;
Enterprise search scopes that make it easier to discover and search content on intranet portals;
Multilingual user interface packages that provide operation in any of 35 languages.

The retail price for this issue is approximately $300.

Windows 7 Enterprise- Identical to the Ultimate edition, but includes volume licensing support and is only available to customers with a Microsoft Software Assurance Agreement.

That's it for the short review. If you look at it, it becomes obvious that for simple user The Windows 7 Home Premium edition will be enough, which will save about $150. So, if you are planning to purchase Windows 7, do not rush to chase everyone, think about which version you need. After all, it may turn out that the cheapest edition - Home Basic - is quite suitable for your requirements.

The Windows 7 operating system, by Microsoft, was presented in 6 editions. That is, there are six in total different versions Windows 7 OS. But how can you decide which version to choose among such a large number? You will learn about everything in order from this article. It's really simple!

So, to get started, here's a list, what versions of Windows 7 are there?:

Initial
Home Basic
Home Extended
Professional
Corporate
Maximum

Let's look at each in more detail, and only then draw a conclusion that will easily help you decide which version of Windows 7 to choose.

Windows 7 Starter

You won't find this version of Windows 7 on store shelves, as it is intended only for computer manufacturers. Manufacturers, in turn, install this version on the cheapest and lowest-power computers. In terms of functions, this version is the most limited: it does not have Aero effects, and it can only be 32-bit.

Windows 7 Home Basic

This version of Windows 7 also lacks some features, but it already has the Aero effect, with the exception of transparency and changing the desktop picture, and this version of the system can be purchased. It is also worth mentioning that Windows 7 Home Basic does not play DVDs.

Windows 7 Home Premium

Windows 7 Home Premium is the most common version among home users. It fully supports multimedia, has full support for Aero effects, allows you to install it on tablet computers, and accordingly supports touch controls.

Windows 7 Professional

It's like home extended, only it contains more more features, For example, remote control, encrypted file system and more. This version of Windows 7 is designed primarily for use by enterprises and small businesses.

Windows 7 Enterprise

This version of Windows, like the Starter version, is not intended for sale, but is provided to large enterprises and firms. This version provides additional features that can be very useful to companies, firms, organizations: encryption of disks and removable media (flash drives, external hard disks), many languages, program control and much more, which is not particularly interesting for us.

Windows 7 Ultimate

In principle, this is the same corporate version of Windows 7, only already intended for sale. This is the most functional version Windows, it has absolutely all the functions.

If you have a question, which Windows 7 to choose for home use, then the answer here is simple. I recommend choosing one of three versions of Windows 7.

Home extended.
Professional.
Maximum.

For most users, the first one from the list is suitable, that is, the Home Premium version of Windows 7. Since if you are planning to purchase a license, it will cost you much less. Why spend more money on Windows Maximum and then not use most of the functions. Well, then, decide for yourself!

I will conclude here, and if you are interested in the question, which is already installed on your computer, then refer to the corresponding lesson using the link in this sentence.

Good luck choosing the version of Windows 7 for your PC.

The Windows 7 operating system is becoming increasingly popular among users. But this OS was released in several versions at once, and many users do not know which version to give preference to. What are the main differences between Windows 7 versions?

The Windows 7 operating system was released in six versions (editions). Of course, the first difference between the versions of Windows 7 that immediately catches the user's eye is the price. But the difference in price is due to different functionality. Let's take a closer look at each version of the operating system, and then look at the differences between the versions of Windows 7.

Description of Windows 7 versions

Windows 7 Starter. This version only ships with new computers. The initial edition is “stripped down” as much as possible, for example, it does not contain functional part for playing media files with AAC, H.264 and MPEG-2 codecs.

Windows 7 Home Basic. This version of the OS is intended for sale in emerging markets (including CIS countries). Only the basic theme is available in this version Windows interface Aero, a number of functions are not available, such as Shake, Peek, Internet connection sharing, taskbar preview, etc. Playback restrictions in this version are the same as in the Starter version.

Windows 7 Home Premium. This version includes all the features of Home basic system, and also supports Multitouch function, is equipped with Windows Media Center and additional gaming programs. Also available in this version is the ability to improve handwriting recognition.

Windows 7 Professional. This version differs from Home Enhanced in its ability to use Remote Desktop as the host computer. It is equipped with EFS encryption system. It contains a number additional processes and AppLocker. The professional version can be downgraded to Windows Vista and Windows XP.

Windows 7 Enterprise. This release is intended primarily for IT professionals to provide them with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the OS within an organization. This edition is distributed exclusively under a corporate license and has a 90-day validity period. free use for reference.

Windows 7 Ultimate. As the name suggests, this version includes everything available options Windows 7 operating system.

What are the main differences between the versions of Windows 7 besides those that have already been described in the brief description of each edition? Let's start with Windows differences 7 Starter from more “advanced” versions operating system. This edition does not have a 64-bit version, it does not support the Windows Aero interface, the ability to quickly switch between users, the desktop manager, the Windows Mobility Center, or the ability to change the desktop background.

All these functions are already present in the Home Basic version, which, however, is devoid of a number of other functions. The differences between Windows 7 Starter and Home Basic versions from other OS editions are as follows:: inability to create a homegroup (you can only join), lack of multi-monitor support, lack of Multitouch functionality and improved handwriting recognition, no Windows Media Center, additional games, the ability to act as a Remote Desktop host, support for multiple physical processors. These features are present in the following editions of Windows 7.

Also Windows 7 Starter, Home Basic and Home Premium don't have Windows emulator XP, EFS data encryption systems, location-aware printing capabilities, Windows NT domain connectivity. These versions cannot be downgraded to Windows XP or Vista. And only the Corporate and Maximum versions support a multilingual user environment.

The differences between Windows 7 versions also include support end date And maximum size RAM for 64-bit versions. Support for all versions except Professional and Enterprise ends on January 13, 2015; Professional and Enterprise versions are supported for 5 years longer. Regarding amount of RAM, The Starter edition supports up to 2 GB, Home Basic - up to 8 GB, Home Premium - up to 16 GB, and Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate - up to 192 GB (all figures are for 64-bit versions, since the 32-bit version any OS supports no more than 3.25 GB of RAM).

Here is a summary of all the main differences between the versions of Windows 7. Version selection depends on the configuration of your computer, the minimum functionality you need and, of course, the amount of money you are willing to pay for the operating system.