Windows 7 Beta Available Now is it Worth It?

For those of us who keep our eyes on the computer world and what's coming next, like them or loath them, Microsoft has released a beta version of their next operating system. Currently called Windows 7; the beta was released to the public for download on Friday, January 16^th. This new operating system is supposed to replace the much maligned Vista with a much more system compatible operating system. Those of you with older systems will know exactly what this means, when Vista launched, you pretty much had to replace your PC because your old one would not run Vista even if you turned off all the nifty goodies.

With Windows 7, Microsoft has changed the way they offer their operating system; basically this means that when you get your copy it has all the basics to work such as Internet Explorer, and all the drivers for your gear. However for features like Windows Mail, Photo Gallery and Movie Maker you will have to go to Microsoft and download them as part of the Windows Live Essentials pack, this is a free download. One of the things they have tried to accomplish with Windows 7 is to put an end to the huge compatibility issues that we saw with Vista, they have added more drivers and support for myriad of components on the market today.

Available in either a 32 bit or 64 bit version, Windows 7 is already showing faster speeds in boot up, shut down, and file access when compared to XP or Vista, one of the bigger complaints users had about Vista. Loaded with new features; such as a new Task Bar, new Home Group networking, and a fully redesigned Windows Shell ,promise to make this a great new look for Microsoft.

Now that we have taken a little look at what Windows 7 is supposed to be, the next question is "Should I try the beta?" The best answer to that depends on your level of computer savvy, meaning that if you can do your own troubleshooting when something locks up, or you have no problem rebooting a few times then yes go for it. Microsoft has stated that there is currently no troubleshooting support available for this operating system, so it is definitely a user beware offer at the moment.

The other thing to consider is that; at the this time the beta key is currently set to expire on August 1, 2009 so you will need to be prepared to do one of three things; reformat with your old operating system, buy Windows 7 if it is available to the public, or install the next beta if that is where Microsoft goes with it. At this time there is no word on when it will be available for sale to the public, remember this is the first public release of a beta for testing.

Where can you get your copy for download? You can get it directly from Microsoft at www.microsoft.com/springboard along with a host of information on the rest of the products offered. I would not recommend installing the beta on your computer if it is your workstation or main computer at this time. If you choose to do this, it is recommended that you install it as a dual boot set up and that you keep all of your important files backed up either on a back up hard drive or on discs.

If Windows 7 is as good as early reviews have said that it is, then perhaps this time Microsoft has gotten rid of most of the bugs before letting it loose on the general public, unlike their previous operating systems. Only time will tell, I plan on installing my copy soon and will be hoping for the best.

Sources: www.microsoft.com/springboard, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_7, http://www.informationweek.com