Even before the launching of Windows 7, I already said that there is no way but up for Microsoft once Windows 7 becomes available.

Not because Windows 7 is a super awesome operating system but because of the lukewarm reception and criticisms received by its predecessor - the Windows Vista.

In a nutshell, I will tell you straight that there aren’t many changes to the look of Windows 7 compared to Vista. Simply put, Windows 7 is simply what Vista should be a long time ago - capable and stable.

I installed Windows 7 in two of my notebook computers. I didn’t encounter any problems with the first installation since it’s a complete installation to a brand new notebook.

I encountered some problems with the second installation (Upgrade) because there are some applications that I need to uninstall first before installation can be completed - like security programs that conflicts with Windows 7.

But after all these small bumps, everything went smoothly. Booting up and shutting down is fast compared to Vista - others claim that it’s slower but I didn’t experience it that way.

In less than 30 seconds, my Windows 7 is up and running. Shutting it down takes me less than 12 seconds.

Some features I find cool are as follows:

- shaking the current window to minimize other windows

- a list of recently accessed files called Jumplist

- a real timesaver

- a preview of current open apps called Preview Plus

- an automatic snap into place functionality

- a free XP mode app that allows you to run XP apps in Windows 7

- easy way to duplicate or extend your display to another monitor

- a Device stage for your devices, direct link to vendors website for updates and other information

- a “Problem Steps Recorder” that allows users to record a PC problem wherein they can send the recorded file for help

- a new “Magnifier” tool for those who are having difficulty viewing small displays

- a new music files preview window

- a Homegroup Networking allows easy sharing folders over a network. The only setback here is only Windows 7 computers can join a Homegroup.

- an Action Center that handles updates, restore point facilities, troubleshooting etc.
- Improved Touch Navigation

- an enhanced Taskbar

Windows 7 System Requirements: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor; 1 gigabyte (GB) RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit); 16 GB available hard disk space (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit); DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver.
As I’ve said, Windows 7 is not a super awesome OS, it has its share of flaws as well and that is what I am going to discuss in my next Windows 7 article.