Comparison of editions of Windows 7. What is the difference between different editions of Windows
Before the seventh version of Windows appeared, each new release of this OS had one or two subversions. Thus, XP was released in two versions: “Professional” and “Home” - this was quite suitable for most users. Those who wanted to save money purchased the modest “Home”, while those who wanted to enjoy full functionality purchased the professional edition of this system.
Domestic users rarely thought about this issue, since they traditionally installed a pirated version of the operating system on their home or work PC. Today the situation has changed. Firstly, no one will allow you to install an unlicensed OS at your workplace, and secondly, the marketing policy has given rise to a whole brood of subversions of the next product - Windows 7 (we are not considering Vista due to the complete failure of this project).
Now even our user has to delve into the differences between individual branches of the system. Some of them are intended for ordinary home user. Here is a list of these branches with brief explanations about them:
Alternatives for the pros
The difference between the following branches and the previous ones is that, strictly speaking, they are not intended for the average user inexperienced in programming and administration.
Or for those who do not need to squeeze maximum capabilities out of the system (like those who like to play resource-intensive toys). There are also three such alternatives:
- Professional version.
- Ultimate version (Maximum).
- Enterprise.
Everything is clear with the latest OS - it is installed in large enterprises in order to ensure increased productivity and safety. But what is the difference between the Professional and Ultimate versions is really worth discussing. How does the Windows 7 maximum axis differ from the professional axis? Windows 7 professional is not positioned as a version for home use. Its main feature is the availability of system administration tools, which are really useful only in industrial operation conditions.
This includes a disk encryption mechanism, group policies for user rights to access local and network resources, remote desktop technology, advanced printing options for network printers, and the like.
None of this is useful at home. The system interface is not adapted to the needs of inexperienced users. Install such a system on home computer It only makes sense for the sake of studying it.
The maximum branch includes absolutely everything that is in Windows 7, but is aimed at the average household user. This is the Enterprise version adapted to his needs. One might wonder: which of these OSs is better? The answer will hang in the air - none.
It all depends on your interests and needs. But if you’re going to install something more powerful than Home, then it’s better to pay attention to Ultimate. In addition to all the advantages of Windows 7 professional, Ultimate has many decorations for real enthusiasts and those who like to delve into the innards and nooks and crannies of the operating system.
There are several Windows 7 packages: Home, Premium, Professional and Ultimate. Each version of the operating system has a different set of available features. To select suitable version, you need to find out exactly how one Windows 7 differs from another, and decide for what purposes you need the OS.
The main differences between Windows 7 packages
OS versions differ in capabilities, but minimum requirements all packages have the same effects on computer performance:
- 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor with clock frequency 1 gigahertz (GHz) or higher;
- 1 gigabyte (GB) (32-bit) or 2 GB (64-bit) random access memory (RAM);
- 16 gigabytes (GB) (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit) hard drive space;
- DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM driver version 1.0 or higher.
If the components of your computer meet the above requirements, then any Windows 7 will not freeze on it. Please remember that these are the minimum requirements to operate clean (without third party programs) systems. Compliance with these parameters does not mean that all games and applications written for Windows 7 will start and not freeze.
Now let's look at the availability of certain functions in different versions of the OS. Each subsequent Windows package will contain all the functions of the previous one, while also having new features.
Table: list of features of different packages
Possibilities | Home Basic | Home Premium | Professional | Ultimate |
Improved desktop navigation makes it easier to accomplish common tasks | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Quickly and conveniently launch programs and search for frequently used documents | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Fast and safe browsing on the Internet using Internet browser Explorer 8 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Possibility to choose place and time free viewing favorite TV programs using Internet TV | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Possibility of creating home network and connecting homegroup computers to the printer | Yes | Yes | ||
Running Windows XP programs in Windows XP mode (separate download) | Yes | Yes | ||
Domain join feature provides secure connection to corporate networks | Yes | Yes | ||
Ability to back up data on your home or work network | Yes | Yes | ||
BitLocker drive encryption protects your computer data from loss and theft | Yes | |||
Ability to select an interface language from 35 available languages | Yes | |||
Booting from virtual hard disks (VHDs) | Yes |
Windows 7 Ultimate is also called Windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 7 Enterprise.
Which version to choose
You cannot install the highest version of the OS on your computer. the best way On the contrary, it is strongly not recommended to do this.
Each version is optimized for a specific group of users and their basic needs. For example, the functions present in the “Maximum” package will never be useful to the average user who does not work in large companies and does not understand detailed settings system registry. Installing a more advanced version of the system that exceeds your needs will only overload your computer and confuse you with incomprehensible functions and programs.
To choose the right Windows package, you need to figure out which version of the OS is intended for which group of users.
"Home"
This package is suitable for those who use a minimum number of programs and functions: a browser, explorer, text editor and other similar basic services. If your needs do not exceed these limits, then it is worth purchasing the “Home” version of the operating system. Windows 7 Home is suitable for users with a weak computer
But there is one caveat: this package is maximally optimized for weak computers. If you have a computer whose characteristics meet the minimum threshold of requirements for the system given above in the article, or its performance is around this minimum level, then opt for Windows 7 Home, as it is as lightweight as possible. This version is well suited for laptops and netbooks. If your computer is more powerful than the minimum level, then it is recommended to consider the following OS package.
"Home Extended"
This version also belongs to the Home package, but has a number of features that are not available in the standard version of Windows 7 Home:
![](https://i0.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-1.jpg)
So, Windows 7 Home Premium is worth installing if the above capabilities are enough for you, and more sophisticated functions such as special data encryption and Windows XP emulation are not needed. Remember that this package is not suitable for users with weak PCs; it is also better not to install it on laptops and netbooks, since the video card may begin to heat up more due to the load and this will damage the device.
This version is good for games. It already has all the necessary functions and is designed for more powerful computer, capable of handling some games, but at the same time not yet overloaded with additional settings presented in the “Professional” and “Maximum” versions.
"Professional"
The main differences between the “Professional” version of the OS and the home packages:
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1.jpg)
So, this package is suitable for users who change Windows settings manually and working with old programs and important files, and automatic backup will help you avoid losing important data in the event of a system failure.
"Maximum"
This version is also called “Corporate”, since it is primarily intended for a group of people working on one project. Windows 7 Ultimate has the following advantages over previous packages:
Windows 7 Ultimate was designed for corporate computers
Based on the above, it can be argued that the “Maximum” version of Windows 7 is suitable for those who work in a company or want to monitor several computers of their subordinates and partially manage them.
Video: Comparing Windows Versions
Finding information about the installed system
If you have already selected the appropriate package and installed it, or are using Windows 7, but do not know which version is installed on your computer, then you can find out information about the system, service pack, and build number in several ways.
Through system properties
![](https://i2.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-6.png)
![](https://i2.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-7.png)
Through the Winver program
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-5.png)
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-22.jpg)
Video: how to find out the OS version using Winver
Through command execution
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-1.png)
![](https://i0.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1.png)
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-3.jpg)
Via license key
Download Volume Activation Management Tool (VAMT) 2.0
Go to "Product Key" section
Enter your license key
Click the “Verify” button and wait for the verification to complete
What to do if ServerPack is not displayed and how to install it
ServerPack (“Update Pack”) may not appear in the system information if it is not installed on the computer. In order for information about an update package to appear in the system information block, you must install this package.
For Windows 7, there is only one package with code 1 - ServerPack 1. You can download it from the official Microsoft website. The package includes a set of updates for stable operation of the system and its optimization. To install it, open the downloaded file and run the program from its current location. Wait for the process to complete and restart your computer.
ServerPack 1 includes a set of updates for stable system operation and optimization
How does one assembly differ from another?
In the information block about the system you can find the line “Build”.
Windows build is a remake installation package operating system. It can be either official, created by Microsoft, or unofficial, collected by third-party developers. Unofficial builds, as a rule, have their own set of additional functions and preset settings, disabled or added features.
There are people who take standard Windows and edit its parameters, adding or disabling certain functions. Then they post the installation file with their creation on some sites, and users have the opportunity to download this file and use it to install Windows, but not a clean system, but with the changes that the author of the assembly made there. The build version is listed in the system information
It is best to install official builds, as they are as stable and optimized as possible, but if you need a system with certain additions or restrictions, you can search finished assembly on the Internet. Be careful, you may stumble upon a low-quality or malicious assembly that harms your computer or simply does not work.
How to find out the distribution version
Distribution kit is a group of files intended for installing an operating system. If you find a distribution kit or installation disk with it, but do not know what version of Windows will be installed when you activate it, then follow these steps:
Go to the "sources" folder
Open the file "ei.cfg"
Look at the second line of the file
Open the file "idwbinfo.txt"
Check the line "BuildBranch" and "BuildArch"
What do the letters K, N, KN mean in the version name?
When searching for the required build, you may come across names such as Windows 7 Home N. Similar names with an additional letter indicate that this version Windows is designed for specific countries and does not have group programs built-in Windows Media.
The letters K, N, KN in the series name mean that the Windows version does not have built-in Windows Media programs
By installing an assembly with a letter in the name, you refuse to use all programs related to Windows Media. Many users don’t use them anyway, installing more convenient programs for watching movies and listening to music. But the built-in programs from Microsoft also do no harm; if desired, they can be removed after installing the system.
Special assemblies without these programs were created for countries where pre-installed software is prohibited, since it deprives a person of independent choice of software.
How to remove the “Your copy is not genuine” notification
The “Your copy is not genuine” notification appears in the lower right corner of the desktop when the system notices that the system installed on your computer is counterfeit or not activated. Notification from the system that the system is not activated
You have two options to get rid of this inscription: activate Windows or bypass the ban. The first method is simple - find the license key and go through the activation process, the second - you need to remove certain updates. You can do this by following these steps:
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-8.png)
![](https://i0.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-21.jpg)
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-20.jpg)
Uninstall the update code “KB971033”
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-18.jpg)
![](https://i2.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-17.jpg)
![](https://i0.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-16.jpg)
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-15.jpg)
![](https://i2.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-14.jpg)
![](https://i2.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-13.jpg)
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-12.jpg)
![](https://i2.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-11.jpg)
![](https://i2.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-10.jpg)
![](https://i2.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-9.jpg)
![](https://i0.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-8.jpg)
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-7.jpg)
![](https://i0.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-6.jpg)
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-5.jpg)
![](https://i0.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-4.jpg)
Video: how to remove the message “Your copy of Windows is not genuine”
How to switch from one version of Windows 7 to another
If you want, for example, to switch from the “Home” version of Windows to the “Extended” version or, conversely, from the “Advanced” to the “Home” version, you can reinstall the system to the required version, having previously saved all important data to another medium. But this method is not always optimal, since all information and settings will be irretrievably lost. Therefore, you can use other methods that allow you to update or roll back the operating system version to the desired level.
Upgrade
This instruction is suitable for those who want to switch from a simpler version of the system to a more advanced one. You can do this in the following way:
![](https://i2.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-11.png)
![](https://i2.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-10.png)
Downgrade
To roll back a version, for example, from “Professional” to “Home Premium,” you will need a license key for the system you are installing and the installation file itself, from which Windows is usually installed.
This method is not a system reinstallation, since the update will be performed without data loss, but with a downgrade. The instructions below will also be useful if you want to restore to a previous version of Windows after upgrading its version. The problem is that downgrading the version of Windows is prohibited, it can only be upgraded, but this prohibition can be circumvented.
![](https://i0.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-26.jpg)
![](https://i2.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-12.png)
![](https://i0.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-25.jpg)
![](https://i0.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-24.jpg)
![](https://i1.wp.com/remnabor.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/1-23.jpg)
How to choose a version during installation
The version of Windows 7 can also be selected during the installation process. This is done in one of the steps: the program will offer all versions included in the installation file, and you will have to select one of them, after which you can continue the installation process.
During installation, select one of the suggested versions
License key cost
The price will vary for different versions of the system. Officially, Microsoft has already stopped supporting and, accordingly, distributing keys for Windows 7, but some resellers still resell keys.
What is a “trial version”
A trial version is a trial version issued to you for a certain period of time, for example, 30 days. At the end of this period, a notification will appear indicating that the system is not activated. trial version is issued so that you can evaluate the product and decide whether it is worth paying the full price for the license or not.
Instructions on how to remove the “Your copy is not genuine” message that appears after the end of the trial version are given in one of the previous paragraphs of the same article.
Each version of Windows 7 is designed for a specific number of tasks. To choose one version or another, you need to decide what tasks you are installing it to perform. You can upgrade or downgrade your operating system at any time. After installing one of the versions of Windows, you need to activate it in order to work on it without restrictions.
operating system Windows 7 published in six editions. Having learned about their number, there is no need to grab your head and spend sleepless nights on the Internet, trying to determine the most suitable one. You will only have to choose from two, because the publications can be immediately divided into two categories. And in each of them, the choice will largely be dictated by the thickness of the wallet.
Operating systems for home
Comparison table of Windows 7 editions
Operating systems for home
Windows 7 Starter
“Who needs such a system if you can’t run more than three programs in it?” - this is the first thing that comes to mind, if you don’t know that Microsoft has abandoned the idea of limiting the number of applications that can be launched simultaneously. Initially, the idea was that OEMs needed a cheap OS to install on cheap netbooks equipped with network card and/or Wi-Fi module. Imagine for a moment what you could do with three programs. Which one will you launch first? That's right, browser. And here you go:
e-mail
music and video
newspapers, magazines and books
collaboration with documents
social networks, forums, chats, blogs, websites (where are you reading this article?)
games and so on...
Considering the widespread shift of services to the Internet, you will have enough to do here for a long time. Not so bad for an ultra-cheap system, especially without a limit on the number of programs you can run. The edition is only available in 32-bit, which is not surprising given its entry level.
Windows 7 Home Basic
This edition has everything that is in the initial edition, and also adds a number of convenient features - Internet connection sharing, quick user switching, and a mobility center. And this significantly expands the range of computers on which OEMs will install Home Basic. These so-called budget desktop and mobile computers will go to emerging markets. Yes, this edition does not have some of the “goodies” of the new interface, but it already has many of the functionality of the latest operating system Microsoft systems. And having supplemented it free programs, you can get a system that will satisfy the needs of a very wide range of users.
Windows 7 Home Premium
Here, a full-fledged Aero Glass interface is added to the previous edition, as well as interesting desktop navigation capabilities - Aero Shake and Aero Peek. You will also have access to creating a home group, multimedia capabilities, including Windows Media Center, as well as other nice utilities - like Notes and an expanded set of games. Perhaps this is the optimal edition for home use if there are no sufficient reasons or means to want more.
Windows 7 Ultimate
It takes the best of what Microsoft put into Windows 7. At home, you can benefit from file system encryption and BitLocker to improve data security. AppLocker is useful for serious control over household members. It may not be superfluous to have the option of backing up to network drive. This edition will be preferred by Windows enthusiasts - those who consciously use the wide range of capabilities of the operating system. Well, the users pirated versions, of course, where would we be without them...
So what should you choose?
Most likely, you need to be guided by two considerations:
budget size
level of own requests to the system
If you purchase new computer the cheapest configuration, it is logical to assume that you want to save on everything. And if it comes pre-installed with Home Basic, inquire about upgrading to the next edition. It is possible that this will be affordable for you.
It is unlikely that mid- or high-end systems will be equipped with the Home Basic. But if you encounter this, attracted by the low price, you can spend the “saved” money on a more functional and beautiful system - Home Extended. Your experience working with her will be more pleasant.
Experienced users who have a clear idea of what operating system functions they need, and who want to have everything at once, don’t need to think too much. You need to buy a computer with Maximum or pay extra for an on-site upgrade (at the very least, inquire about its conditions for the future).
If you decide to buy Windows 7 separately, at retail, you only need to choose between Home Premium and Ultimate. Most likely, the first of them will suit you quite well, but if you are not short of money... you have already skipped this section of the article.
Operating systems for business
Windows 7 Professional
With operating systems for organizations, everything is even simpler. Professional is designed for small and medium businesses. The functionality of Home Premium adds the ability to join a domain, group policies, location-based printing, advanced remote desktop capabilities, file system encryption and other necessary things in a business environment under Windows control. All other benefits Windows platforms 7 (for example, such important ones as ease of deployment) are also with it, which distinguishes this edition from its “namesake” - Windows XP Professional, which is now dominant in organizations as a client OS.
Windows 7 Enterprise
The edition for large business has identical Maximum opportunity, differing only in the licensing scheme. In large organizations, BitLocker is designed to improve data protection, and multinational corporations will not hesitate to take advantage of language packs. AppLocker will help administrators control the set of applications that a user runs, and enterprise search will facilitate collaboration between workers. This edition also includes other technologies that can benefit from the appropriate infrastructure.
The scale of the business and the list of key technologies in the table will help you make a choice between these two publications.
Comparison table of Windows 7 editions
The table provides a comparative list of features of all editions. The list is incomplete, but is large enough to give you an idea of the differences. Additional information Many possibilities can be found on the official website.
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 versions of Windows 7?
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 as “stripped down” as possible; for example, it lacks the functionality for playing media files with AAC, H.264 and MPEG-2.
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 the Home Basic System, plus Multitouch support, Windows Media Center, and additional features. gaming programs. Also available in this version is the ability to improve handwriting recognition.
Windows 7 Professional. This version differs from Home Enhanced by the ability to use Remote Desktop as the host computer. It is equipped with EFS encryption system. It contains a number of additional processes and AppLocker. The professional version can be rolled back to Windows Vista and Windows XP.
Windows 7 Enterprise. This version is intended primarily for IT professionals to provide them with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the OS within an organization. This edition distributed exclusively by corporate license and has a 90 day period free use for reference.
Windows 7 Ultimate. As the name implies, this version includes all the available features of the Windows 7 operating system.
What are the main differences between versions of Windows 7 besides those that have already been described in brief description 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 support for multiple monitors, lack of Multitouch and improved handwriting recognition, lack of 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 Corporate version 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, because 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.
Installing the system on a PC is very simple and generally does not differ from installing Windows Vista. And it should be noted that the system requirements for a 64-bit system are somewhat high - it can run on 1 GB of RAM. Below in the article we will discuss the pros and cons of 64-bit versions, as well as “which is better – a 32-bit or 64-bit version.”
Windows 7 comes in several editions (editions). Data on them is given in the table:
Possibilities versions |
Initial (Starter) |
Home basic (Home Basic) |
Home extended (Home Premium) |
Professional (Professional) |
Maximum and Corporate (Enterprise) |
Improved taskbar and jump lists |
+ | + | + | + | + |
Windows Search | + | + | + | + | + |
Joining home group |
+ | + | + | + | + |
Archiving and recovery |
+ | + | + | + | + |
Help Center | + | + | + | + | + |
Control devices (Device Stage) |
+ | + | + | + | + |
Streaming broadcast media files, including Play To technology |
+ | + | + | + | + |
Support Bluetooth |
+ | + | + | + | + |
Faxes and scanning |
+ | + | + | + | + |
Base set of games |
+ | + | + | + | + |
Dispatcher credentials |
+ | + | + | + | + |
Aero Snap | + | + | + | + | + |
"Live" sketches in the taskbar |
- | + | + | + | + |
Fast switching users |
- | + | + | + | + |
Connection to wireless networks on the fly |
- | + | + | + | + |
Sharing connection to Internet |
- | + | + | + | + |
Support several monitors |
- | + | + | + | + |
Center mobility Windows (without regime presentations) * |
- | + | + | + | + |
Aero Glass and extended navigation in Windows (Aero Shake and Aero Peek) |
- | - | + | + | + |
Windows Touch (sensory and handwritten input) |
- | - | + | + | + |
Creation home groups |
- | - | + | + | + |
Windows Media Center |
- | - | + | + | + |
Playback and editing DVD video |
- | - | + | + | + |
Advanced set of games |
- | - | + | + | + |
Scissors, Notes |
- | - | + | + | + |
Windows Sideshow (on additional display) |
- | - | + | + | + |
Printing tailored locations |
- | - | - | + | + |
Joining domain and group politicians |
- | - | - | + | + |
Connections to remote desktops (host) |
- | - | - | + | + |
Extended archiving (network and group politics) |
- | - | - | + | + |
Encrypting file system (EFS) |
- | - | - | + | + |
Center mobility Windows: mode presentations * |
- | - | - | + | + |
Autonomous folders |
- | - | - | + | + |
Windows XP Mode |
- | - | - | + | + |
BitLocker and BitLocker To Go |
- | - | - | - | + |
AppLocker | - | - | - | - | + |
DirectAccess | - | - | - | - | + |
BranchCache | - | - | - | - | + |
Multilingual custom interface (linguistic packages) |
- | - | - | - | + |
"Corporate" search |
- | - | - | - | + |
Improvements in deployment virtual medium (VDI)** |
- | - | - | - | + |
Download from virtual hard drives (VHD) |
- | - | - | - | + |
*Windows Mobility Center is only available for laptops and netbooks
**Windows 7 Ultimate is not licensed for VDI scenarios, but these features enrich the experience remote connection to this OS
*** The table is compiled based on information from Microsoft:
http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/compare?T1=tab20
But you can see such signs (or similar ones) on any site where Windows 7 is mentioned. And, frankly, for the average user they are not very informative: it looks like you need to take the Maximum version (you won’t be able to buy the Enterprise version - this version is not for free sales). But do you need it? Let's try to figure it out...
What to install - 32-bit or 64-bit?
Here we are considering the situation that we install on a home computer to solve typical household tasks: watching movies, simple work (like typing in MS Word), the Internet, games.Most sites advise installing the 64-bit version, citing the fact that it “works faster.” Opponents of the 64-bit system motivate their position with a “problem with drivers.” In fact, now there is practically no such problem - you can almost always find a 64-bit driver for more or less modern equipment. In some cases, 32-bit ones are also available - but this risks slowing down the system or even causing it to fall into the “blue screen of death”. Therefore, it is better to install only 64-bit drivers.
In fact, for home computers the performance increase is not as significant as we would like; it is clearly noticeable in mathematical calculations, for example, but in everyday life it is practically unnoticeable; moreover, given that most programs are now 32-bit, it can happen slowing down your computer. This is due to the peculiarity of executing 32-bit programs on a 64-bit system. Therefore on at the moment It is better to install a 32-bit system (since a 32-bit analogue of a 64-bit program can almost always be found, and the opposite is not always true).
For home computers, there is one exception to the rule - you must install a 64-bit OS if the amount of RAM on your computer is more than 3 gigabytes. 32 bit systems cannot address memory more than 4 GB, in fact - no more than 3 GB (memory distribution feature). You can enable "advanced" addressing (PAE), but this is a "crutch" that does not always work.
Conclusion: if you have 4 GB or more, set it to 64 bit Windows 7, in other cases we set it to 32-bit.
Deciding on the edition of Windows 7
Not everything is clear here - even “home” users have different needs. Therefore, we will explain the features of each edition, based on the table above. As you can see, in the table the “features” of the system are grouped in such a way that the subsequent edition contains all the features that were in the previous one (unlike the table on the Microsoft website - it is grouped there by categories (“entertainment”, “opportunities”, etc. .d.), but comparison is somewhat difficult. Therefore, for those who need to look by category, you are welcome here:http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/compare?T1=tab20
All editions allow you to simultaneously run an unlimited number of applications (as long as your computer resources allow).
Note. All links to the Microsoft website that will be in the article are recommended to be opened in Internet Explorer.
Windows 7 Starter
Improved taskbar and jump lists is a feature that allows you to quickly jump to frequently used files. The content of the jump list depends on specific program. To view the Jump List, you can right-click on the program icon in the taskbar or call it from the Start menu:The improved taskbar is a redesigned taskbar (compared to previous versions of Windows) with improved functionality(which are expanded in more “advanced” editions).
Windows Search: A tool for finding files on your computer. Includes indexing services to speed up file searches. Available in the upper right corner of the window.
![](https://i1.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/3.jpg)
Archiving and recovery: archiving program important files(both yours and system ones) so that they can be restored if necessary. You can choose which files and folders you want to archive. You can also make an emergency copy of the entire system (a snapshot of the system) with installed drivers, programs... So that if something happens, you have fewer problems with reinstallation.
Support Center: built-in program for displaying important Windows notifications that require user attention. These notifications pop up mainly when there are any violations in the system that threaten its security or normal functioning, as well as when there are updates on the Microsoft website. The support center also offers ways to solve problems that have arisen and routinely maintain your computer, allowing it to maintain normal operation.
![](https://i2.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/4.jpg)
http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/device-stage
Streaming media files, including Play To technology: Streaming is when a file is played on one computer (broadcast server), and other computers act as receivers. It turns out something like a radio broadcast, but on a local network. PlayTo technology allows you to choose which computer to play the specified file on, i.e. allows you to personalize your broadcast. You can admire the PlayTo technology by downloading a demo video from the Microsoft website:
http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/features/play-to
Bluetooth support: support for Bluetooth devices.
Basic set of games: standard set of games (Klondike, Minesweeper, Spider...).
Credential Manager: allows you to work with accounts users (add, change name, set password and other account-related features).
![](https://i2.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/5.jpg)
![](https://i0.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/6.jpg)
http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/features/snap
In addition, in the Initial version you cannot change the wallpaper on your desktop. The initial version is usually supplied on netbooks, but on them it is quite possible to replace it with some more powerful edition. There are also restrictions on running some applications, for example, some games do not run on this OS.
Windows 7 Home Basic
Includes everything that is in the Primary, and in addition to this a number of possibilities."Live" thumbnails in the taskbar: When you hover and hold the cursor over the program icon in the taskbar, a window thumbnail appears showing what the program is currently doing. Video playback can even occur in this window. One program can have several thumbnails if several windows are open in it. In short, these are something like screenshots of a window in the taskbar:
![](https://i2.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/7.jpg)
Connect to wireless networks on the fly: when left clicking on the icon wireless networks the taskbar displays a list of available wireless networks (and information about them in tooltips) that you can connect to
![](https://i0.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/8.jpg)
Multiple monitor support: display of working Windows desktop and programs on other monitors connected to this computer; There are various display options. You can access these settings by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting “screen resolution”:
![](https://i1.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/9.jpg)
Windows Mobility Center: This is for laptops and netbooks, allowing you to access quickly used tasks typical for this type of system:
![](https://i1.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/10.jpg)
Windows 7 Home Premium
Includes everything that is in Home Basic, plus some functionality on top of that.Aero Glass and advanced navigation in Windows (Aero Shake and Aero Peek, Aero Snap): Aero Glass is a translucent window display style and animation, with the ability to customize translucency, colors, etc. "for yourself." Aero Shake hides all windows except the selected one. To restore all windows, just “shake” active window. Demonstration (video):
http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/features/shake
Aero Peek – “X-ray” for windows – allows you to look “through windows”, while the outlines of windows remain on the screen, but their contents disappear (except for the selected window). Demonstration (video):
http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/features/peek
Windows Touch (touch and handwriting): Designed for tablet computers. Allows you to work with the system by clicking on interface elements on the screen.
Create a homegroup: what's happened home group– see the corresponding paragraph in the description of the capabilities of the “initial” edition. In this edition, in addition to joining, you can already create home groups. The fundamental difference is that in the “initial” edition it was impossible to select files and printers to which you want to share access in this way, but in this version you can.
Windows Media Center: a program for quick access to multimedia functions of Windows: watching and recording TV shows, viewing videos and photos, listening to music... Optimized for use on devices with touch screens.
Playing and editing DVD video: If you can play a DVD on any edition, providing the appropriate codec if necessary, then here this codec is already available “out of the box”.
![](https://i0.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/11.jpg)
Scissors, Notes:“Scissors” not only allows you to select any area of the screen and take a screenshot only from this area. Sticky notes are like “sticky notes” on your desktop for memory. This function will be useful for MirSovetov readers who own tablet PCs - you can take notes by hand.
![](https://i2.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/12.jpg)
![](https://i0.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/13.jpg)
Windows 7 Professional
Includes all the features of Home Extended, with a number of others added.Location-based printing: Let's say you're using a laptop and connecting it to the network at work. There is a printer at work, there is a printer at home. Previously, you had to reconfigure the printer each time or, at best, select the appropriate default printer. With this feature, Windows remembers which network the printer is connected to and automatically restores the settings for it when it reconnects to that network.
Joining a domain and group policies: allows you to configure group policies (sets of rules in accordance with which the Windows environment is configured, typical for multi-user systems) and the ability to enter a computer into a domain (a domain is a group of computers with the same security policies).
Remote desktop connections (host): allows you to remotely connect to a computer and work on remote computer as if you were behind him.
![](https://i0.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/14.jpg)
![](https://i1.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/15.jpg)
Advanced archiving (network and group policies): everything is the same as in regular archiving, but to this is added the ability to archive network settings and group policies.
Encrypting File System (EFS): allows you to encrypt your files and folders from other users (when using file sharing NTFS systems). How and why to encrypt is, rather, the topic of a separate article.
Windows Mobility Center: a presentation mode has been added (what a “mobility center” is – see the description of the Home Basic Edition) makes it possible to display an image on a projector:
![](https://i1.wp.com/setupcomp.ru/images/kakuju-versiju-vybra-win7/16.jpg)
Windows XP Mode: allows you to run the operating system in Windows 7 environment Windows system XP. And work with it as if you had it installed - i.e. install programs there, run games for XP, etc. At the same time, there is a “transparent” connection with Windows 7: for example, you can easily copy files from Win7 to Win XP (and vice versa) by simply dragging them from the Win7 desktop to Win XP and vice versa.
This function can also work as a program launcher in Windows 7: Windows window XP does not open, but all conditions under which the program would work on real XP are emulated, which is not achieved by the options on the “compatibility” tab. To be fair, it is worth noting that there are few such programs.
This feature requires installation of a virtualization tool.
Note for a professional. Starting with this version, the distribution includes such useful snap-ins as lusrmgr.msc (Manage local users and groups), gpedit.msc (Group Policy Editor), secpol.msc (Security Policies).
Windows 7 Ultimate and Enterprise
The versions include everything that is in the Professional version, and in addition:BitLocker and BitLocker To Go: These are means of protecting and encrypting data on hard drives(BitLocker) and USB drives (BitLocker To Go). A conversation about how it works and how it is configured is beyond the scope of this article. Most home users do not need these programs (unless you work with data, access stranger which is highly undesirable).
AppLocker: This is an addition to group policies that determines which applications can/cannot run on computers on the network. A tool for administrators, controlled from the Windows Power Shell console, the average user has absolutely no need for it, unless they prevent children from playing toys. But this is a “cannon against sparrows” - there are more convenient means.
DirectAccess: allows you to gain access from home to the organization’s internal network using a special server. Again, the average user does not need it.
BranchCache: caches data from remote servers on local network resources. Saves working time on downloading files, sometimes improves the performance of web applications. Why is this on a home computer?
Multilingual user interface(language packs): allows you to install localization packages, as a result of which each user can select their own native language on one computer. Relevant for transnational companies.
"Corporate" search: search on the organization's network, incl. in databases, etc., with a high degree of compliance of the returned result with the requested one.
Improvements in virtual deployment environments (VDI): a technology that allows you to save on application licensing (and some other things) - when virtual computers are deployed on one server, users work with them in the same way as if they were “real”.
Booting from virtual hard disks (VHD): virtual hard drive- this is a file, one might say, an image, which has its own file system, operating system, data, etc. Mainly used in virtual machines. But with this function you can boot Windows 7 from such a file. Allows you to have several without special expenses copies of Windows, independent of each other, on one “real” (physical) hard drive.
Yes, I would like to note that Windows Player Media Player available in all versions of Windows 7. Also recently it became possible to choose desired browser at Windows installation 7 (the so-called “browser selection dialog box”), almost all are available to choose from popular browsers(Opera, Chrome, Firefox, IE...).
Which version of Windows 7 should I choose?
This is where we will finish the description of the “tricks” of the various editions. Let's summarize. But before that, let’s divide the user audience into groups. The division is very arbitrary and characterizes the main range of tasks that the user solves in everyday life. The breakdown itself was somehow imperceptibly derived by the author over 7 years of work in the IT field, perhaps it is somewhat subjective:- Beginners / Regular users. They are either just beginning to learn the basics of working with a computer, or they use the computer as a typewriter and for surfing the Internet. They periodically watch films, listen to music;
- Advanced users/Interested. “Just working” with a computer is no longer enough for them; they are looking for ways to make this work faster, more convenient, and easier. And also in many cases they try to understand “how it works” and “what else can be done”;
- IT professionals / students of IT specialties. For them, computers are a profession. They use it to do everything - from hammering nails with a computer to developing large systems control something and security systems. They tend to require more features from the operating system.
Windows 7 Ultimate can be recommended to those who work in a large organization as at least a system administrator or want to encrypt data with using BitLocker“out of the box”, without having to worry about purchasing and configuring third-party software, which is not always able to work as expected (i.e., it may be incompatible with this version of Windows).
Why don’t we recommend “Elementary” and “Home Basic” to any of our readers? Because in our opinion, these are slightly inferior systems, greatly reduced and devoid of useful functions, which in modern world needed quite often. It's just a matter of saving money. In addition, the “Initial” edition is not sold in Russia and the CIS.
All of the above is not presented as truth in a higher authority, the choice is yours, given that many do not buy Windows, but download from various Internet resources - there is no question of saving money here. Well, those who honestly buy an OS should approach the choice of editors responsibly, because the money is yours and overpaying for something that you will never use is stupid, to say the least.
Exceptions (where would we be without them!). If you have tablet computer or device with touch screen– you better install at least Windows 7 Home Premium. If you need a presentation function (seamless connection of a projector), then it would seem that your choice is “Professional”? Not necessarily. Of all the features of this edition, you only need one function - and pay almost double the amount for it? Wouldn't it be easier to use third party utility– does it come with almost every projector and laptop?
Current official prices can be found here:
http://www.microsoftstore.ru/shop/ru-RU?WT.mc_id=StoreCountryToggle_RU
That's all. Thank you for reading the article. I hope it was useful to you.