Which Version of Windows 7 Should I Get?

Windows 7 has finally launched. The early word is that we can expect a much better experience than we all had with Vista. Of course now we all have to decide which version of Windows 7 we should get. Here are a few tips to help you decide the best version of Windows 7 for you. Once you decide, be sure to visit my other article describing ways to save on Windows 7.

What are the Choices?

Technically there are six different version of Windows 7 but in reality there are only three versions you need to consider. These are Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate. There is a Starter version of Windows 7 but according to Microsoft's website, that version of Windows 7 will only be available on small notebooks.

You should choose the cheapest version of Windows 7 that has all the features you need. Each level has one or two key features that may or may not make it worth buying that level. For example if you need domain support then you need at least Windows 7 Professional. If you need data encryption then you need Windows 7 Ultimate. If you don't need any of these then Windows 7 Home Premium may be adequate.

Windows XP Compatibility Mode is a Big Factor

A feature unique to Windows 7 Professional and Windows 7 Ultimate is XP compatibility mode. This feature allows the user to run an instance of Windows XP within Windows 7. This will make it much more likely that your current software will run. Nothing is worse than upgrading windows only to find that you also have to change versions for some of your other applications as well.

How much this matters will depend on how you use your computers. If you are just the type that uses it for email and internet access this feature may not matter at all. But if there is a certain application that you use a lot or even depend on, then do some research and find out if it runs on Windows 7. You may find that that your application needs 100% Windows XP compatibility. If that is the case you will defiantly need this feature.

Other Benefits of Windows 7 Professional

The other two features that come with Windows 7 Professional versus Windows 7 Home Premium have mainly to do with networking and domains. Windows 7 gives you the ability to join domains. Something else new in Windows 7 Professional is the ability to back up and restore system setting across a network. For most home users these won't be an issue but this may be requirements in a business setting.

Windows 7 Ultimate Edition

The main advantage to Windows 7 Ultimate edition is the addition of data security. Windows 7 Ultimate comes with BitLocker which will encrypt your data. Data encryption is a powerful way to secure your data and protect your privacy.

Windows 7 Ultimate Edition also comes with enhanced language support. This allows you to switch to and from 35 different languages.

Sources

Microsoft: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/compare/default.aspx