Windows 7 Versions
There are six different Windows 7 versions currently available to consumers. Each of these versions features complete functionality, stability, security and personalization. Best of all, it is very simple to learn how to use each of these versions.
If you are considering the purchase of Windows 7 or are simply looking to acquire more information about this highly rated version of Windows, then you should be aware of these various versions. You can then use this information to choose the version that will work the best for you.
Three of these versions- Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate, can easily be found at all major retailers. The other versions are designed for more specific markets such as business.
Herein, you will find a brief summary of each available version.
Windows 7 Starter
The Windows 7 Starter version contains the least amount of features of all Windows 7 versions. It should also be noted that Windows 7 Starter is only available in a 32-bit version, while all other versions support the 64-bit processor. This version contains limited themes and many functions are not changeable by user. This is the lightest weight version of Windows 7 available to consumers.
Windows 7 Home Basic
The Windows 7 Home Basic version contains more “bells and whistles” than the Starter version and allows more personalized customization features. This version does not contain all Aero options and some newer features that have been introduced since the release of Windows 7 are not available with this version.
This version of Windows 7 is also available in more markets around the world when compared to the Windows 7 Starter version. It should also be noted that Windows 7 Home Basic is not available in first-world countries.
This version also requires geographical activation restrictions.
Windows 7 Home Premium
Windows 7 Home Premium is one of the most popular versions of Windows 7. It is specifically designed for the home market. It allows more customization and usage features than the Windows 7 Starter version and Windows 7 Home Basic version.
Windows 7 Professional
Windows 7 Professional is designed with heavy computer use in mind. It is the perfect version for individuals or small-businesses that use their computer excessively. It also comes with many features not available in the aforementioned versions including but not limited to:
- Windows Server Domain
- Remote Desktop Server Use
- Multiple Location Printing
- Encrypting File System
It should be noted that this version is fully supported up to 2020 by Microsoft.
Windows 7 Enterprise
This version of Windows 7 is only available to enterprises that have a Software Assurance contract with the Microsoft Company. It is sold in volume licensing and will be fully supported by Microsoft through 2020.
Windows 7 Enterprise also comes equipped with unique features such as but not limited to:
- Multilingual User Interface Packages
- Bit-Locker Drive Encryption
- UNIX Application Support
Windows 7 Ultimate
The Windows 7 Ultimate version comes packed with all the unique and competitive features that come by default with the Windows 7 Enterprise version. The difference is that this version can be acquired by individuals and does not require a Software Assurance contract. Individuals who have purchased the Windows 7 Home Premium or Professional version can upgrade to this version for free.
The big difference between the Windows 7 Enterprise version and the Windows 7 Ultimate version is the fact that this version will only be supported by Microsoft through 2015.