• Windows 7 Basic Advanced. What are the differences between different editions of Windows?

    Windows 7 was released for free sale in the fall of 2009 and has since become the most popular of all Microsoft operating systems. Let's try to figure out what innovations and improvements compared to its predecessors brought Windows 7 such popularity and love from numerous users around the world.

    Improvements and innovations

    A big gift for lovers of the latest technologies was the appearance of multi-touch control support. This technology allows you to control your touchscreen laptop with multiple finger movements at the same time. In addition, it recognizes various user gestures, making operation simple and intuitive. Windows 7 is tightly integrated with driver manufacturers for various devices. Thanks to this, users are relieved of the need to independently determine, search and install the necessary drivers; in most cases, the system will do this automatically.

    Fans of older applications will appreciate the compatibility mode with earlier operating systems, such as Windows XP. This means that users will be able to easily run games that were designed for previous versions of Windows.

    The Windows 7 operating system includes a DirectX 11 installation package, which supports a number of new technologies in graphics processing. Users now have the opportunity to fully enjoy the magnificent picture on the computer screen, which is created thanks to improved tessellation mode and support for new compute shaders, as well as expanded ability to render images in multiple threads.

    Finally, the high-quality work of the Windows Media Player built into the operating system has been realized, which this time received serial number 12. Previous versions of the program played only a limited number of video formats; to improve performance, the installation of a large number of codecs was required. Users did not like this approach, which is why they increasingly chose software from third-party manufacturers. In the latest version of the player, the list of supported video formats has been significantly expanded.

    Windows 7 has received a modified, more convenient and functional taskbar. Now the panel displays only icons without labels, which allows you to fit many more applications on it at the same time. In addition, a “Collapse all windows” button has appeared on the panel.

    It is now possible to manage the reserved disk space allocated for system recovery. The user can also determine what exactly should be restored - system settings, changed files, or all together.

    Desktop gadgets in Windows 7 are no longer tied to a bar on the left side of the screen. The user can independently move them to any place convenient for him.

    Windows 7 has expanded the list of fonts included by default. In addition, the fonts have been redesigned to display various characters correctly. The list of non-Latin fonts available to the user has been significantly expanded.

    The Aero interface, known to users from the previous version of the Windows Vista operating system, now supports several design options. It also adds new features that make it easy to manage the location and size of windows on your desktop.

    Safety

    Windows 7 adds more security features personal computer. Now the user has access to the function of prohibiting the launch of individual applications using the AppLocker service. BitLocker encryption technology has undergone significant improvements and now allows you to encrypt information on removable media. The Windows Firewall has been significantly improved to notify the user when applications are blocked. Thanks to the DirectAccess function, it is now possible to establish a secure connection with a remote server without user intervention.

    Editorial

    Windows 7 has six different editions, which differ in functionality and cost.

    Initial version or Windows 7 Starter characterized by limited functionality, for example, it does not even allow you to change the picture on the desktop. This edition of the operating system is supplied exclusively in the OEM version and, as a rule, was pre-installed on laptops and netbooks.

    The next edition is called Windows 7 Home Basic and also has a very limited set of capabilities. It does not support the proprietary Windows Aero interface and Multitouch technology, and has little functionality when working with local networks. Designed for OEM sales and supplies to emerging markets.

    The most popular versions were Windows 7 Professional and Home Premium. They are actively sold at retail, and are also pre-installed on a large number of computers assembled around the world. They support all the functions necessary for the average user; the functionality limitations affected only the segment required to work in large corporate networks and perform specific tasks.

    The maximum range of capabilities is provided by the versions Windows 7 Ultimate and Enterprise. They are identical in functionality, but the first version is intended for retail sales, and the second for deliveries to corporate clients. Windows 7 Ultimate is the top version of the system, which includes absolutely all the features laid down by Microsoft developers.

    Hardware requirements

    To correctly install the operating system on the user’s computer, it must have the following: minimum characteristics:

    • Processor with a frequency of at least 1 GHz;
    • 1 gigabyte of RAM (2 gigabytes for the 64-bit version);
    • A video adapter with a capacity of at least 128 megabytes (required to enable the Aero interface) and DirectX9 support;
    • 16 gigabytes of free hard disk space (20 gigabytes for the 64-bit version).

    It is no secret that today Windows 7 is gaining increasing popularity among PC users who prefer operating systems from Microsoft. Why is this happening? There are several reasons. One of which is that the system works faster, while consuming fewer resources than. Programmers from Microsoft really decided to put more effort into Windows 7 than into Vista - which, in fact, was one of the company's biggest failures in recent times. The second reason is that Windows 7 can be installed on almost any modern computer, even a netbook, and it will work on it. System requirements are quite modest.

    CPU: 1 GHz (32-bit/64-bit).
    RAM: for a 32-bit system 1 GB, for a 64-bit system 2 GB.
    Hard drive requirements: 16 GB of space for 32-bit OS, 20 GB for 64-bit OS.
    Graphics: if you want to enable the Windows Aero interface, you will need a video card that supports DirectX 9 with WDDM driver version 1.0 or higher; The card must have 128 MB of memory.
    (data taken from the Microsoft website. http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/system-requirements)
    What is WDDM? Without delving deeply into technical details, let's say that this is a video card driver, built somewhat differently than before (i.e., a driver with a new architecture). As a result, the graphics system has become more stable and secure. Also, the Aero interface will only work correctly with drivers of this type. Whether this is true or not, whether this is a Microsoft commercial ploy or not, this is a long debate, and it goes beyond the scope of this article. I’ll just note that almost all Radeon or Nvidia cards released after 2004 support this driver model, and the drivers themselves can always be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.

    Windows 7 versions

    Installing the system on a PC is very simple and is generally no different from 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 of connecting remotely 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, at the moment it is more desirable 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 larger than 4 GB, in fact - no more than 3 GB (memory allocation 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, install 64-bit Windows 7, in other cases install 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 the 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. It is recommended to open all links to the Microsoft website that will be in the article 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 contents of the jump list depend on the 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.
    Joining a HomeGroup: provides the ability to join a computer to a homegroup. HomeGroup is a tool that makes it easier to set up shared access to files and folders, as well as printers on your home network (that is, between computers in your apartment/house). Readers of MirSovetov should understand that Windows Starter only supports joining a homegroup, but not creating them!
    Archiving and recovery: a program designed to archive 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 and routine maintenance of your computer, allowing it to maintain normal operation.

    Device management: When you connect a device, a window may appear that groups the most frequently used functions for that device. For example, if you have an MFP (printer-scanner-copier), then when you connect it, various scanning and printing options may be displayed. In earlier versions of Windows, this was separated into different menus, which you still need to get to. An example of this function on the Microsoft website:
    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 user accounts (add, change name, set password and other account-related features).

    Aero Snap: a very useful feature, according to MirSovetov: quick resizing of windows when dragging them to the edges of the screen. For example, when you need to view two Word documents side by side at the same time: previously you had to adjust the sizes manually, now you just have to drag one document to the left and the second to the right side of the screen. When you “drag” the windows from these positions, the windows will restore their former size. Oddly enough, it is available even on systems that do not have an Aero interface.

    Demonstration (video) on the Microsoft website:
    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:

    Fast user switching: support for switching to another user without first closing all windows and programs of the current user.
    Connect to wireless networks on the fly: When you left-click on the wireless networks icon in the taskbar, a list of available wireless networks (and information about them in tooltips) that you can connect to is displayed
    Internet Connection Sharing: the ability to access the Internet of the same network, connected to the Internet.
    Multiple monitor support: displaying the 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”:

    IN in this case There is one monitor in the system. If there were several of them, then next to the monitor with the number 1, a monitor with the number 2 would appear, and in the “screen” drop-down list you would be asked to select the desired monitor.
    Windows Mobility Center: This is for laptops and netbooks, allowing you to access quickly used tasks typical for this type of system:

    This edition does not support equipment for displaying presentations (the ability to connect projectors).

    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, simply shake the 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 is a 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, here this codec is already available out of the box, and is also available under the name DVD Studio.

    Extended set of games: Chess, mahjong, backgammon and others are added to the standard games.
    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.
    Windows Sideshow (on secondary display): technology for receiving and displaying data from a computer on other displays. For example, displaying a photo from a computer in a photo frame.

    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 a remote computer as if you were behind it.
    The prefix "host" means that the computer can act as the one to be connected to using the remote desktop feature.
    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 the NTFS file system). 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:

    Offline folders: the ability to automatically copy the contents of server files to the local computer disk; the user will be able to access the files even if the server on which they are stored goes offline. Periodically, Windows synchronizes files in offline folders with the contents of files on the server.
    Windows XP Mode: allows you to run in Windows environment 7 operating system Windows 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 means of launching programs in the Windows 7 environment: the Windows XP window does not open, but all conditions under which the program would run 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 Virtual PC, 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

    versions include everything that is in the Professional version, and to this:
    BitLocker and BitLocker To Go: These are tools for protecting and encrypting data on hard drives (BitLocker) and USB storage devices (BitLocker To Go). A conversation about how it works and how it is configured is beyond the scope of this article. Most home users don't need these programs (unless you work with data that you don't want anyone to access).
    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): a virtual hard disk is a file, one might say an image, that has its own file 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 copies of Windows, independent of each other, on one “real” (physical) hard drive without any special costs.
    Yes, I would like to note that Windows Media Player is available in all versions of Windows 7. Also, recently it has become possible to select the desired browser when installing Windows 7 (the so-called “browser selection dialog box”), almost all popular browsers are available to choose from (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:
    • Category 1: Beginners/Regular Users. They are either just starting to learn the basics of working with a computer, or they use the computer as a typewriter and for browsing the Internet. They periodically watch films, listen to music;
    • Category 2: 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”;
    • category 3: 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 control systems and security systems. They tend to require more features from the operating system.
    For category 1, the best choice, according to MirSovetov, would be Windows 7 Home Premium - it has everything you need for work and entertainment and even a little more. At the same time, you don’t overpay for functionality you don’t need, which you won’t use anyway.
    For category 2, this edition is also attractive, although Windows 7 Professional would be suitable for them. But “Professional” costs almost 1.5 times more than “Home Advanced”.
    Category 3 is more suitable for Windows 7 Professional - very often they need functions that are only available in “Professional”.
    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 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. e. may not be compatible with this version of Windows).
    Why don’t we recommend “Initial” and “Home Basic” to any of MirSovet’s readers? Because, in our opinion, these are slightly inferior systems, greatly reduced and devoid of useful functions that are often needed in the modern world. 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 a tablet computer or a device with a touch screen, it is better for you to 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 a third-party utility - it comes 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

    And so, after many years of tormenting Windows XP, you decided to install the Windows 7 operating system, but unlike XP, 7 has a lot of different versions (editions), and when the choice comes, you are confused about what to choose, and which version of Windows 7 is better now we will figure it out and compare their differences, advantages and disadvantages.

    From these differences it follows that you can install everything except the basic (starter) and home initial versions, there are six of them in total:

    All versions of Windows 7

    Initial- there is nothing to tell this is a completely stripped-down version, which you can only purchase when purchasing a computer or laptop, and has only an introductory feature, it does not have a 64-bit version of the system (what does this mean I already wrote in the article), it supports a maximum of only 2 Gb of RAM memory, it does not have desktop visualization, in general, all the beauties of the seven, you cannot connect two monitors (only in clone mode), it will not work and connect to a remote desktop on the computer where this version of the OS is installed. There is no domain support, even the media center was cut out, in general, this operating system does not give you anything in principle, but only the ability to turn on and check the computer for functionality. There is no downgred either, so anyone who decided to cheat won’t be able to do it.

    Home basic- what’s more interesting is the ability to install 8 GB of memory (for this reason there are two types of release), everything is also bad with local network capabilities, no home group creation, no domain support. There is no remote desktop. But this version already includes support for multiple monitors. There is no downgrade, and the visual beauty of Windows Aero is still undercut. I would not recommend it for advanced users because in the future you will still want more features from it.

    Home extended- now you can work with these without restrictions, all the visual beauty is here, you can also create home groups yourself, and not just join them. We still won’t be able to connect to the domain, nor will we be able to connect to the remote desktop. So I can confidently say this version is ideal for the home. Here, you will have enough of everything.

    Professional- this is the most ideal version of Windows 7; it has everything you need. There is support for domains and a windows xp emulator (XP Mode) has appeared for running outdated applications; a downgrade appears, although in this version it is no longer needed. Support for multiple physical processors and finally remote desktop. This is the maximum for home use with a ceiling. As a rule, such versions are installed on work computers in offices; its set fully satisfies the needs of the local network.

    Corporate- the version is not for home, only for organizations. Here we have already added support for DirectAccess, a subsystem for launching Unix applications.

    Maximum- as the name suggests, there is everything to the maximum, it is very expensive for home and work, you won’t need it.

    Conclusion : Of all the above, two leaders can be named: Home extended for the home, and Professional to work, you simply won’t need all other versions of the operating system

    P.S.: I would like to note that you have every right to put and Home version in the organization, no one legally prohibits you from doing this.



    Windows 7 version differences and which Windows 7 is better? This question worries everyone who wants to reinstall or install the Windows 7 operating system on their laptop or computer.

    Which windows 7 is better?

    Despite the abundance of new versions of the Windows operating system and the end of support for version 7, it still has quite a lot of adherents. This is not surprising, according to many experts - this is one of the most successful versions from Microsoft. But even within one generation, there are several operating system options, which leaves the user with a rather difficult choice. Let's try to figure it out: what is the difference between them?

    Why do we need different versions of Windows 7?

    Millions of people use this operating system. Each of them has their own requirements, preferences and tastes. In addition, everyone has different financial capabilities. Therefore, there is absolutely no reason to spend $300 on a more expensive full-featured version if the user needs a minimum set of functions, which will cost almost half the price. Therefore, after studying the requirements and preferences of potential buyers, Microsoft developed and released several versions of the Windows 7 operating system:
    Starter Edition;
    Home Basic;
    Home Premium;
    Professional (Professional Edition);
    Maximum (Ultimate Edition);
    Corporate (Enterprise).
    It’s easy to get confused in such a variety, so before choosing a specific OS, you should familiarize yourself with the features of all

    The main differences between the starter and home versions
    It’s worth mentioning right away that the Starter Edition of the OS is supplied only under an OEM license. That is, only with equipment. For example, when buying a new laptop. It has high performance, which is ensured by minimizing the tools used. Features include working in a home group and good compatibility of services and applications. However, it is impossible to buy it at retail - this license is not for sale.
    The Home Basic version is only available for sale in developing countries. Its cost is about 100 US dollars. It has a modest interface without additional visual effects, and good performance even on “weak” computers and laptops. But the premium version of Home Premium for home use has become the best option For many users, efficiency and speed are successfully combined with a friendly, designer-designed interactive Aero Glass interface, a built-in media center, extensive networking capabilities and multi-touch technology for touch panels and touchpads.
    Purchasing the Home Premium version will cost about $150. It's important to note that both home variants support 64-bit platforms, unlike the launch one, which is only available for 32-bit devices.

    Benefits of Windows 7 Professional Edition
    “Business class” version - allows you to join a domain, increase the reliability of data storage by creating backup copies, and configure the operation of a computer or laptop for both a work and home network. Also, the professional version allows you to make backup copies of not only individual files, but the entire operating system as a whole.
    Also, this OS already provides the ability to encrypt data, which significantly increases the reliability of data protection. If the software used for work is not supported by Windows 7, then the user will be offered a compatibility mode that will allow him to work using familiar software. But the cost of such a system will vary between 200-230 dollars.

    Windows 7 Ultimate - everything to the maximum
    The name speaks for itself - everything that could be provided in the Windows 7 release is present here. Multilingual support erases any boundaries. Computer optimization functions allow you to get the most out of your equipment, using its full power. With such a system, you don’t have to worry about data security - data encryption and the BitLocker data protection feature will take care of this. If you are using a connection to corporate networks, the data will be protected by DirectAccess technology. With Microsoft AppLocker technology, computers can be protected from running unauthorized programs. For corporate work, Windows 7 Ultimate makes it easy to search for data on your work intranet. Of course, such a list of benefits comes with a corresponding price – approximately $300.

    Windows 7 Enterprise – for corporations only
    In essence, this version of the Windows 7 operating system is completely identical to Ultimate, but offers a special licensing scheme for corporate users. System administrators can successfully use the data protection capabilities of BitLocker and DirectAccess security. And Microsoft AppLocker tools will allow you to control the workflow and the use of third-party software.

    How to choose the best version of Windows 7?

    Before you start choosing, you need to find out the bit capacity of your processor, since choosing the wrong option will either not allow you to install the operating system at all, or will lead to its incorrect operation. It is important to remember that Starter Edition is not available for 64-bit hardware.
    When going shopping, you should decide on the amount that the user is willing to pay, since the difference of 150-200 dollars is very significant, especially for residents of poor countries. Therefore, if you have modest financial resources, it would be wise to opt for home versions - they will provide all the necessary functionality that this category of people requires. This mainly involves storing and viewing photos and videos, studying, listening to music, surfing the Internet, and working in simple editors. It is also the best choice for low-power computers.
    If financial capabilities and hardware level allow, then the best option would be to choose Windows 7 Ultimate. This option is also for those who have a clear idea of ​​what tools they need and have sufficient experience in setting up and optimizing the operating system - in this case, this will allow them to streamline their work at the computer as much as possible.
    For representatives of corporations, the Corporate Edition will be an option. It provides high-quality information protection and ample opportunities for administration and work on intranets.
    For representatives of business class, the Professional release is ideal. The data protection techniques used in it will allow you to safely work and transfer any information, including financial information.

    Why are builds based on Windows 7 so popular?
    Assemblies are special collections of tools and software that allow you to configure and prepare a computer, laptop or netbook from scratch. This kit usually includes tools for working with hard drives and testing equipment. The kit also includes one or even several versions of the Windows family of operating systems. They are often supplemented by a set of application software that is most often installed: office suites, players, image editors, programs for working on the network. These software collections are really very popular because they allow you to completely automate the process of installing the operating system, software, and performing basic settings. To use them, it is enough to have general cultural knowledge about the operating features of the OS. You just need to select the version, specify the necessary programs and wait an hour and a half maximum. In addition, they allow you to have everything “at hand”, on one or two flash drives.

    There are six editions of Windows 7. Two editions for mainstream consumers and business users and four specialized editions for enterprise customers, tech enthusiasts, emerging markets and entry-level PCs.

    The following editions of Windows 7 are available:

    1. Windows 7 Starter: This release targets mini PCs in all markets. It is only available for the 32-bit platform. Features: Improved Windows Taskbar and Jump Lists, Windows Search, ability to join HomeGroup, Action Center, Device StageTM, Windows® Fax and Scan, enhanced media streaming including Play To, wide applicability and device compatibility, with three parallel programs.
    2. Windows 7 Home Basic: This release is intended for PCs in emerging markets. This version has Internet access and runs basic productivity applications. This release includes all the features available in Windows 7 Starter, plus additional ones such as Live Thumbnail previews, improved event visualization, and improved network support.
    3. Windows 7 Home Premium: This release is a standard customer release. It provides full functionality on the latest hardware, easy connectivity options, and a visually rich environment. This edition includes all the features available in Windows 7 Home Basic and other features such as Windows® Aero®, enhanced Windows navigation and Aero theme, Windows® Touch, the ability to create a HomeGroup, DVD video playback and creation, Windows® Media Center, Snipping Tool , Sticky Notes, Windows Journal and Windows® SideshowTM.
    4. Windows 7 Professional: This release focuses on small and medium businesses, for users and companies who have networking, backup, security needs, multiple PCs or servers. This release includes all the features available in Windows 7 Home Premium, plus additional ones needed for core business including Domain Join and Group Policies, data protection with advanced networking, backup and Encrypted File System, the ability to print to the correct home printer or working with Location Aware Printing, Remote Desktop node and Offline Folders.
    5. Windows 7 Enterprise: This release provides enhanced data protection and information access for firms using IT as a strategic asset. This business-focused edition is intended for managed environments, primarily large enterprises. This release includes all the features available in Windows 7 Professional, plus others such as BitLocker, BitLocker To Go, AppLocker, DirectAccess, BranchCache, Enterprise Search Scopes, all interface languages, enhanced Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) and the ability to boot from VHD.
    6. Windows 7 Ultimate: This release is for tech enthusiasts who want all the features of Windows 7, without the Volume License agreement. It includes all the same features as Windows 7 Enterprise. Windows 7 Ultimate is not licensed for VDI scenarios.

    Attention: Microsoft also produces N edition of Windows 7 Starter, Windows 7 Home Basic and Windows 7 Professional. N editions of Windows 7 include all the same features as the corresponding editions, but do not include Windows Microsoft® Media® Player and related technologies. This allows you to install your own media player and the components it needs.

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