Windows 7 explainedWindows 7: the Which? verdict
Windows 7 Live Q&A
Replay our live online Windows 7 Q&A session, where the Which? Computing experts answered all your Windows 7 questions.
Windows 7: the pros
Windows 7 represents an incremental update of the operating system. That said, some of the new features such as the Action Center and new networking features offer compelling reasons to upgrade.
So far, things look promising: Windows 7 seems stable and fast for a Beta release, and it may be the product that finally shakes off the lacklustre reputation that Vista has acquired in some circles.
Windows 7: the cons
However, any major upgrade comes with teething problems. We'd advise waiting a while at least until Microsoft has released the first round of patches and updates. Software bugs are par for the course for newly released programs, and operating systems are no exception.
You may also find that your existing hardware such as printers, scanners and cameras might not work with Windows 7. If you have an older device there’s no guarantee that manufacturers will produce a Windows 7-compatible driver.
Similarly, you may find that older versions of software that you currently use on your computer will no longer work with Windows 7. Upgrades may become available later but you’ll have to pay for these, too.
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