When Microsoft created Windows 7 they kept the best features from past operating systems and also added new features.  Microsoft has attempted to make these new features easily accessible and usable by most people and anticipate that a majority of past and new users will enjoy this newest OS upgrade.  Some of the most eagerly anticipated features include:

Improved performance-

• System boot time and application launch times have noticeably decreased.
• A reduction in the time required to place systems into and retrieve them out of hibernation mode makes “putting your system to sleep” more convenient.
• New optimization tools decrease battery usage, allowing portable computer users more “cord-free” time than was possible with Vista and XP.

Enhanced searching capabilities-

• New options allow you to look for keywords in documents, emails, attached storage devices, and can also extend the search to networked servers and designated web pages.

Location aware printing-

• When you connect to a network, Windows 7 will automatically detect your location and select the proper printers for your print jobs.

Virtual hard disk support-

• Windows 7 can be virtualized, allowing multiple operating systems to reside on a single host machine.
• Windows 7 is preconfigured to support Hyper-V virtual machines.

Expanded security-

• BitLocker-to-Go brings the encryption powers of BitLocker to portable storage devices such as USB drives and external storage devices.
• Preinstalled drivers let your Windows 7 machine “read” most biometric devices.
• App-Blocker lets IT administrators easily control the applications individual users can access.
• Windows Access Center replaces Vista’s Security Center.  The Access Center provides security alerts and gives you the tools to take care of problems and system maintenance in one convenient location.
• Geo-tracking will broadcast the position of your computer to location-aware applications such as mapping programs.

Simple device management-

• Device Stage is a plug-and-play app that will recognize portable devices when connected to a computer, and then provide you with only the relevant menus and options needed to manage the device.

New remote access methods-

• BranchCache provides branch-office users quicker access to files stored on central file servers in the main office.
• Direct Access gives mobile users remote access to resources without requiring the use of a VPN.

Troubleshooting tool-

• Problem Steps Recorder (PSR) provides a recording app—when an error repeatedly occurs after executing a particular sequence of steps, you can use the PSR to log the sequence, and share it with the IT administrator for problem solving solutions.
• This app is also terrific when used to record specific steps and routines for training purposes.

In addition to the above features included in Windows 7, there are many other new or improved features that might specifically enhance your user experience or improve the functionality of your business’s IT environment.  To learn more about how your company can take advantage of the new and improved features of Windows 7, please contact All Covered at 866-446-1133.

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