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7 home basic and advanced. Remote media streaming. Creating a dedicated wireless network

The Windows 7 operating system, by Microsoft, was presented in 6 editions. That is, there are a total of six different versions of the Windows 7 OS. But among such a large number, how can you decide which version to choose? You will learn about everything in order from this article. It's really simple!

So, to start with, here's a list, which Windows versions 7 exist:

Initial
Home Basic
Home Extended
Professional
Corporate
Maximum

Let's look at each in more detail, and only then draw a conclusion that will easily help you decide which version of Windows 7 to choose.

Windows 7 Starter

You won't find this version of Windows 7 on store shelves, as it is intended only for computer manufacturers. Manufacturers, in turn, install this version on the cheapest and lowest-power computers. In terms of functions, this version is the most limited: it does not have Aero effects, and it can only be 32-bit.

Windows 7 Home Basic

This version of Windows 7 also lacks some features, but it already has the Aero effect, with the exception of transparency and changing the desktop picture, and this version of the system can be purchased. It is also worth mentioning that Windows 7 Home Basic does not play DVDs.

Windows 7 Home Premium

Windows 7 Home Premium is the most common version among home users. It fully supports multimedia, has full support for Aero effects, allows you to install it on tablet computers, and accordingly supports touch controls.

Windows 7 Professional

It's like Home Advanced, but it contains even more features, such as remote control, an encrypted file system, and more. This version of Windows 7 is designed primarily for use by enterprises and small businesses.

Windows 7 Enterprise

This version of Windows, like the Starter version, is not intended for sale, but is provided to large enterprises and firms. This version provides additional features, which can be very useful to companies, firms, organizations: encryption of disks and removable media (flash drives, external hard drives), many languages, program control and much more, which is not particularly interesting for us.

Windows 7 Ultimate

In principle, this is the same corporate version of Windows 7, only already intended for sale. This is the most functional version Windows, it has absolutely all the functions.

If you have a question, which Windows 7 to choose for home use, then the answer here is simple. I recommend choosing one of three versions of Windows 7.

Home extended.
Professional.
Maximum.

For most users, the first one from the list is suitable, that is, the Home Premium version of Windows 7. Since if you are planning to purchase a license, it will cost you much less. Why spend more money on Windows Maximum and then not use most of the functions. Well, then, decide for yourself!

I will conclude here, and if you are interested in a question that is already installed on your computer, then refer to the corresponding lesson using the link in this sentence.

Good luck choosing the version of Windows 7 for your PC.

There are several Windows 7 packages: Home, Premium, Professional and Ultimate. Each version of the operating system has a different set of available functions. To choose suitable version, you need to find out exactly how one Windows 7 differs from another, and decide for what purposes you need the OS.

The main differences between Windows 7 packages

OS versions differ in capabilities, but minimum requirements all packages have the same effects on computer performance:

  • 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor with clock frequency 1 gigahertz (GHz) or higher;
  • 1 gigabyte (GB) (32-bit) or 2 GB (64-bit) random access memory(RAM);
  • 16 gigabytes (GB) (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit) hard drive space;
  • DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM driver version 1.0 or higher.

If the components of your computer meet the above requirements, then any Windows 7 will not freeze on it. Please remember that these are the minimum requirements to operate clean (without third party programs) systems. Compliance with these parameters does not mean that all games and applications written for Windows 7 will start and not freeze.

Now let's look at the availability of certain functions in different versions of the OS. Each subsequent Windows package will contain all the functions of the previous one, while also having new features.

Table: list of features of different packages

Possibilities Home Basic Home Premium Professional Ultimate
Improved desktop navigation makes it easier to accomplish common tasks Yes Yes Yes Yes
Quickly and conveniently launch programs and search for frequently used documents Yes Yes Yes Yes
Fast and safe work on the Internet using Internet browser Explorer 8 Yes Yes Yes Yes
Possibility to choose place and time free viewing favorite TV programs using Internet TV Yes Yes Yes
Ability to create a home network and connect homegroup computers to the printer Yes Yes
Running Windows XP programs in Windows XP mode (separate download) Yes Yes
The domain join feature provides secure connection to corporate networks Yes Yes
Ability to back up data on your home or work network Yes Yes
BitLocker drive encryption protects your computer data from loss and theft Yes
Ability to select an interface language from 35 available languages Yes
Booting from virtual hard disks (VHDs) Yes

Windows 7 Ultimate is also called Windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 7 Enterprise.

Which version to choose

Installing the highest version of the OS on your computer is not the best way; on the contrary, it is strongly not recommended.

Each version is optimized for a specific group of users and their basic needs. For example, the functions present in the “Maximum” package will never be useful to the average user who does not work in large companies and those who do not understand the detailed settings of the system registry. Installing a more advanced version of the system that exceeds your needs will only overload your computer and confuse you with incomprehensible functions and programs.

To choose the right Windows package, you need to figure out which version of the OS is intended for which group of users.

"Home"

This package is suitable for those who use a minimum number of programs and functions: a browser, explorer, text editor and other similar basic services. If your needs do not exceed these limits, then it is worth purchasing the “Home” version of the operating system. Windows 7 Home is suitable for users with a weak computer

But there is one caveat: this package is maximally optimized for weak computers. If you have a computer whose characteristics meet the minimum threshold of requirements for the system given above in the article, or its performance is around this minimum level, then opt for Windows 7 Home, as it is as lightweight as possible. This version is well suited for laptops and netbooks. If your computer is more powerful than the minimum level, then it is recommended to consider the following OS package.

"Home Extended"

This version also belongs to the “Home” package, but has a number of functions not available in standard version Windows 7 Home:

  • Searching on the computer and setting up the window interface has been simplified, and support for the Aero function has appeared. This is precisely the main difference between the “Advanced” version and the “Home” version, since along with the Aero technology, many visual effects have been added that decorate appearance systems, but at the same time loading the video card;
  • it became possible to create a home group that allows you to quickly exchange files, documents, photos and other elements via the Internet between users in the same group;
  • appeared Media program Center, through which you can watch TV and record programs running on it.
    You should not install Windows 7 Home Premium on laptops, netbooks and weak PCs

    • So, Windows 7 Home Premium is worth installing if the above capabilities are enough for you, and more sophisticated features such as special data encryption and Windows XP emulation are not needed. Remember that this package is not suitable for users with weak PCs; it is also better not to install it on laptops and netbooks, since the video card may begin to heat up more due to the load and this will damage the device.

    This version is good for games. She already has everything necessary functions and is intended for more powerful computer, capable of handling some games, but at the same time not yet overloaded with additional settings presented in the “Professional” and “Maximum” versions.

    "Professional"

    The main differences between the “Professional” version of the OS and the home packages:

  • built-in Windows emulator XP, which allows you to use programs designed for the previous version of the operating system. That is, you don’t have to install the XP emulator manually or look for programs rewritten for Windows 7;
  • automatic and advanced backup, allowing you to restore or roll back the system at any time. This feature is very useful, since you never know at what point Windows will refuse to boot, will start to glitch or slow down. The possibility of such a copy will allow you to use a backup copy to restore the system;
  • increased level of data encryption. Useful for users working with important documents and reports;
  • local editor group policy, which allows you to configure in detail the processes and functions that occur in the system and are performed by it. It can be used by users who have knowledge in setting up the system, although currently you can find on the Internet detailed instructions for beginners, allowing you to work with the Group Policy Editor without special knowledge;
  • support Remote Desktop Connection. Using this program, you can remotely control your or someone else's computer by connecting to it via the Internet using an IP and password. A very convenient function for those who want to configure the computers of other users without leaving their own, or work with their second computer located in a remote location;
  • a simplified way to connect to local networks of a company or any other group of people.
    Windows 7 Professional is designed for Windows professional users

    • So, this package is suitable for users who change Windows settings manually and working with old programs and important files, and automatic backup will help you avoid losing important data in the event of a system failure.

    "Maximum"

    This version is also called “Corporate”, since it is primarily intended for a group of people working on one project. Windows 7 Ultimate has the following advantages over previous packages:

  • increased file encryption on built-in and third party media using BitLocker and BitLocker To Go technologies;
  • increased security and stability when connecting to a local company group via the Internet;
  • BranchCache service, which provides the fastest possible data exchange via the Internet and access to files stored in the cloud or on any remote server;
  • the AppLocker function, which protects computers from the installation of prohibited programs on them;
  • ability to work with the system in 35 languages;
  • setting up enterprise areas for quick exchange files and search necessary information within a certain circle of data;
  • the ability to create and use network drives for backup.

    Windows 7 Ultimate was designed for corporate computers

    • Based on the above, it can be argued that the “Maximum” version of Windows 7 is suitable for those who work in a company or want to monitor several computers of their subordinates and partially manage them.

    Video: Comparing Windows Versions

    Finding information about the installed system

    If you have already selected the appropriate package and installed it, or are using Windows 7, but do not know which version is installed on your computer, then you can find out information about the system, service pack, and build number in several ways.

    Through system properties

  • Open the Start menu, right-click on Computer and select Properties.
    Right-click on “Computer” and context menu select "Properties"
  • Explore all necessary information about the system in the window that opens.
    In the "System" section you can find out the version and Windows type 7

    • Through the Winver program

  • Using the Windows search bar, find and run the Winver program.
    Launch Winver via the Start search bar
  • In the window that opens, examine all the information you are interested in about the installed Windows.
    Winver will show information about Windows installed on your computer

    • Video: how to find out the OS version using Winver

    Through command execution

  • Run " Command line» via the Windows search bar.
    Launch Command Prompt
  • Type the command "systeminfo" and press Enter.
    Enter the command "systeminfo"
  • In the system detail information lines, find all the necessary data.
    Find the version and type of installed OS

    • Via license key

  • Download and install the Volume Activation program Management Tool(VAMT) 2.0 from the official Microsoft website.

    Download Volume Activation Management Tool (VAMT) 2.0

  • After launching the program, go to the “Product Key” section.

    Go to "Product Key" section

  • Enter your license key, which you used to activate Windows.

    Enter your license key

  • Click the "Verify" button. Wait while the program verifies your key and displays system information.

    Click the “Verify” button and wait for the verification to complete

    • What to do if ServerPack is not displayed and how to install it

    ServerPack (“Update Pack”) may not appear in the system information if it is not installed on the computer. For information about the update package to appear in information block about the system, you need to install this package.

    For Windows 7, there is only one package with code 1 - ServerPack 1. You can download it from the official Microsoft website. The package includes a set of updates for stable operation system and its optimization. To install it, open the downloaded file and run the program from its current location. Wait for the process to complete and restart your computer.

    ServerPack 1 includes a set of updates for stable system operation and optimization

    How does one assembly differ from another?

    In the information block about the system you can find the line “Build”.

    A Windows build is a modified operating system installation package. It can be either official, created by Microsoft, or unofficial, collected by third-party developers. Unofficial assemblies usually have their own set additional functions and preset settings, disabled or added features.

    There are people who take standard Windows and edit its settings, adding or disabling certain features. Then they post the installation file with their creation on some sites, and users have the opportunity to download this file and install Windows using it, but not clean system, but with the changes that the author of the assembly made there.
    The build version is listed in the system information

    It is best to install official builds, as they are as stable and optimized as possible, but if you need a system with certain additions or restrictions, you can search finished assembly in the Internet. Be careful, you may stumble upon a low-quality or malicious assembly that harms your computer or simply does not work.

    How to find out the distribution version

    Distribution kit is a group of files intended for installing an operating system. If you find a distribution kit or installation disk with it, but do not know what version of Windows will be installed when you activate it, then follow these steps:

  • While in the shared file folder, navigate to the "sources" subfolder.

    Go to the "sources" folder

  • Open with notepad or any other text editor file "ei.cfg".

    Open the file "ei.cfg"

  • Find the "EditionID" block. In the example shown in the screenshot, the distribution installs the “HomePremium” version.

    Look at the second line of the file

  • Return to the “sources” folder and open the “idwbinfo.txt” file in the same way.

    Open the file "idwbinfo.txt"

  • Find the “BuildArch” line, indicating the system bit depth, and the “BuildBranch” line, indicating the presence of a service pack (ServerPack). Now you can start installation.

    Check the line "BuildBranch" and "BuildArch"

    • What do the letters K, N, KN mean in the version name?

    When searching for the required build, you may come across names such as Windows 7 Home N. Similar names with an additional letter indicate that this version Windows is designed for specific countries and does not have built-in programs Windows groups Media.
    The letters K, N, KN in the series name mean that the Windows version does not have built-in Windows Media programs

    By installing an assembly with a letter in the name, you refuse to use all programs related to Windows Media. Many users don’t use them anyway, installing more convenient programs for watching movies and listening to music. But the built-in programs from Microsoft also do no harm; if desired, they can be removed after installing the system.

    Special assemblies without these programs were created for countries where pre-installed software is prohibited, since it deprives a person of independent choice of software.

    How to remove the “Your copy is not genuine” notification

    The “Your copy is not genuine” notification appears in the lower right corner of the desktop when the system notices that the system installed on your computer is counterfeit or not activated.
    Notification from the system that the system is not activated

    You have two options to get rid of this inscription: activate Windows or bypass the ban. The first method is simple - find the license key and go through the activation process, the second - you need to remove certain updates. You can do this by following these steps:

  • Open the Start menu and go to the Control Panel of your computer.
    Open the Start menu and go to Control Panel
  • Go to the "Uninstall programs" section.
    Go to the "Uninstall programs" section
  • Go to the list of updates.
    Click on the "View installed updates" section
  • Find it in general list update with code “KB971033” and delete it. If it is missing, then proceed to the next step.

    Uninstall the update with code "KB971033"

  • Return to the main Control Panel page.
    Return to the main Control Panel page
  • Go to the System and Security section.
    Open the "System and Security" section
  • Go to the "Turn automatic updates on or off" section.
    Click on "Turn automatic updates on or off"
  • Disable completely automatic update. This is necessary to ensure that deleted updates are not downloaded again.
    Disable automatic updates
  • Return to the "System and Security" section and go to the "Administration" subsection.
    Go to the "Administration" subsection
  • Select the "Services" function.
    Select Services
  • In the general list of services, find the line “Protection software", select it and click on the "Stop" button.
    Stop the Software Protection service
  • Open File Explorer. To do this, right-click on “Computer” in the “Start” menu and click on “Open”.
    Right-click on “Computer” and click on “Open”
  • Expand the Tools menu in the panel quick access"Conductor".
    Expand the “Service” menu
  • In the menu that opens, select “Folder Options”.
    Open Folder Options
  • Go to the "View" tab in the window that opens. Open the View tab
  • Turn on the “Show hidden files, folders and drives” feature. Enable the feature that allows you to show hidden files and click Apply
  • Using the Explorer search bar, find two files using the key “.C7483456-A289–439d-8115–601632D005A0.”
    Find the required files by code
  • Delete these files. They are usually located in the main section hard drive, on which Windows itself is installed.
    Delete found files
  • Return to the list of services and enable “Software protection”, which you disabled earlier.
    Enable Software Protection service
  • Now you can use any activator to activate Windows for free.

    • Video: how to remove the message “Your copy of Windows is not genuine”

    How to switch from one version of Windows 7 to another

    If you want, for example, to switch from the “Home” version of Windows to the “Extended” version or, conversely, from the “Advanced” to the “Home” version, you can reinstall the system to the required version, having previously saved all important data to another medium. But this method is not always optimal, since all information and settings will be irretrievably lost. Therefore, you can use other methods that allow you to update or roll back the operating system version to the desired level.

    Upgrade

    This instruction is suitable for those who want to switch from a simpler version of the system to a more advanced one. You can do this in the following way:

  • Using the Windows search bar, open Windows program Anytime Upgrade (WAU), it is installed in all versions of the system by default, with the exception of “Maximum”. If you don’t have it, you can download the WAU installation file by finding it on the Internet.
  • Enter the license key. The key can be purchased online, received with the boxed edition of Windows, or generated for free in pirated programs.
    Enter the license key
  • After entering the key, the update process will begin. Please note that the system will be raised only one level higher: if you had the “Home” version, then “Home Advanced” will be installed, if you had “Professional”, then “Maximum” will be installed, etc. Jump from “Home” to “Professional” will not work. If you want to go up more than one level, then after completing the system installation, repeat the update again.
    Wait for the system upgrade to finish

    • Downgrade

    To roll back a version, for example, from “Professional” to “Home Premium,” you will need a license key for the system you are installing and the installation file itself, from which Windows is usually installed.

    This method is not a system reinstallation, since the update will be performed without data loss, but with a downgrade. The instructions below will also be useful if you want to restore to a previous version of Windows after upgrading its version. The problem is that downgrading the version of Windows is prohibited, it can only be upgraded, but this prohibition can be bypassed.

  • Using the Windows search bar, open the “Run” window.
    Open the Run window
  • Use the "regedit" command to expand the "Registry Editor".
    Enter the command "regedit"
  • Using the folder tree in the left line of the program, navigate to the following path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion.
    Find the "CurrentVersion" folder
  • In the destination folder, change the value of the "EditionID" element to the name of the version you are going to install. For example, if you want to roll back to the “Home” version, then enter the value HomeBasic.
    Change the value of the "EditionID" file
  • Once you are done editing the registry, begin the Windows installation process. At the “Select installation type” step, go to the “Update” option and go through the process to the end. The Windows version will be downgraded without reinstalling the system.
    Select installation type "Update"

    • How to choose a version during installation

    The version of Windows 7 can also be selected during the installation process. This is done at one of the steps: the program will offer all versions included in the kit installation file, and you will have to select one of them, after which you can continue the installation process.

    During installation, select one of the suggested versions

    License key cost

    The price will vary for different versions of the system. Officially Microsoft company has already stopped supporting and, accordingly, distributing keys for Windows 7, but some resellers still resell keys.

    What is a “trial version”

    A trial version is a trial version issued to you for a certain period of time, for example, 30 days. At the end of this period, a notification will appear indicating that the system is not activated. trial version is issued so that you can evaluate the product and decide whether it is worth paying the full price for the license or not.

    Instructions on how to remove the “Your copy is not genuine” message that appears after the end of the trial version are given in one of the previous paragraphs of the same article.

    Each version of Windows 7 is designed for a specific number of tasks. To choose one version or another, you need to decide what tasks you are installing it to perform. You can upgrade or downgrade your operating system at any time. After installing one of the versions of Windows, you need to activate it in order to work on it without restrictions.

    It's no secret that today Windows 7 is gaining increasing popularity among PC users who prefer operating systems from Microsoft. Why is this happening? There are several reasons. One of which is that the system works faster, while consuming fewer resources than. Programmers from Microsoft really decided to put more effort into Windows 7 than into Vista - which, in fact, was one of the company's biggest failures in history. Lately. The second reason is that Windows 7 can be installed on almost any modern computer, even a netbook, and it will work on it. System requirements are quite modest.

    CPU: 1 GHz (32-bit/64-bit).
    RAM: for a 32-bit system 1 GB, for a 64-bit system 2 GB.
    Requirements to hard drive: 16 GB of space for 32-bit OS, 20 GB for 64-bit OS.
    Graphic arts: if you want to enable the Windows Aero interface, you will need a video card that supports DirectX 9 with WDDM driver version 1.0 or higher; The card must have 128 MB of memory.
    (data taken from the Microsoft website. http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/system-requirements)
    What is WDDM? Without delving deeply into technical details, let's say that this is a video card driver, built somewhat differently than before (i.e., a driver with a new architecture). Resulting in graphics system has become more stable and safer. Also, the Aero interface will only work correctly with drivers of this type. Whether this is true or not, whether this is a Microsoft commercial ploy or not, this is a long debate, and it goes beyond the scope of this article. Let me just note that for almost everything Radeon cards or Nvidia, released later than 2004, support this driver model, and the drivers themselves can always be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.

    Windows 7 versions

    Installing the system on a PC is very simple and is generally no different from Vista. And it should be noted that the system requirements for a 64-bit system are somewhat high - it can run on 1 GB of RAM. Below in the article the pros and cons of 64 will be discussed. bit versions, as well as “which is better – 32-bit or 64-bit version.”
    Windows 7 comes in several editions (editions). Data on them is given in the table:
    Possibilities
    versions         		Initial
    (Starter)         		home Basic
    (Home Basic)         		Home extended
    (Home Premium)         		Professional
    (Professional)         		Maximum
    and Corporate (Enterprise)
    Improved
    taskbar and
    jump lists    		 + + + + +
    Windows Search + + + + +
    Joining
    home group    		 + + + + +
    Archiving and
    recovery    		 + + + + +
    Support Center + + + + +
    Control
    devices
    (Device Stage)    		 + + + + +
    Streaming
    broadcast media
    files, including
    Play To technology    		 + + + + +
    Support
    Bluetooth    		 + + + + +
    Faxes and
    scanning    		 + + + + +
    Base
    set of games    		 + + + + +
    Dispatcher
    credentials    		 + + + + +
    Aero Snap + + + + +
    "Live" sketches
    in the taskbar    		 - + + + +
    Fast
    switching
    users    		 - + + + +
    Connection to
    wireless
    networks on the fly    		 - + + + +
    Sharing
    connection to
    Internet    		 - + + + +
    Support
    several
    monitors    		 - + + + +
    Center
    mobility
    Windows (without
    regime
    presentations) *    		 - + + + +
    Aero Glass and
    extended
    navigation in
    Windows (Aero
    Shake and Aero
    Peek)    		 - - + + +
    Windows Touch
    (sensory and
    handwritten
    input)    		 - - + + +
    Creation
    home
    groups    		 - - + + +
    Windows Media
    Center    		 - - + + +
    Playback and
    editing
    DVD video    		 - - + + +
    Advanced
    set of games    		 - - + + +
    Scissors,
    Notes    		 - - + + +
    Windows
    Sideshow (on
    additional
    display)    		 - - + + +
    Printing tailored
    locations    		 - - - + +
    Joining
    domain and
    group
    politicians    		 - - - + +
    Connections to
    remote
    desktops
    (host)    		 - - - + +
    Extended
    archiving (network and
    group
    politicians)    		 - - - + +
    Encrypting
    file system
    (EFS)    		 - - - + +
    Center
    mobility
    Windows: mode
    presentations *    		 - - - + +
    Autonomous
    folders    		 - - - + +
    Windows XP
    Mode    		 - - - + +
    BitLocker and
    BitLocker To Go    		 - - - - +
    AppLocker - - - - +
    DirectAccess - - - - +
    BranchCache - - - - +
    Multilingual
    custom
    interface
    (linguistic
    packages)    		 - - - - +
    "Corporate"
    search    		 - - - - +
    Improvements in
    deployment
    virtual
    medium (VDI)**    		 - - - - +
    Download from
    virtual
    hard drives
    (VHD)    		 - - - - +

    *Windows Mobility Center is only available for laptops and netbooks
    **Windows 7 Ultimate is not licensed for VDI scenarios, but these features enrich the experience of connecting remotely to this OS
    *** The table is compiled based on information from Microsoft:
    http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/compare?T1=tab20

    But you can see such signs (or similar ones) on any site where Windows 7 is mentioned. And, frankly, for the average user they are not very informative: it looks like you need to take the Maximum version (you won’t be able to buy the Enterprise version - this version is not for free sales). But do you need it? Let's try to figure it out...

    What to install - 32-bit or 64-bit?

    Here we consider the situation that we bet on home computer for solving typical household tasks: watching movies, simple work (like typing in MS Word), the Internet, games.
    Most sites advise installing the 64-bit version, citing the fact that it “works faster.” Opponents of the 64-bit system motivate their position with a “problem with drivers.” In fact, now there is practically no such problem - under more or less modern equipment You can almost always find a 64-bit driver. In some cases, 32-bit ones are also available - but this can lead to the system slowing down or even crashing. blue screen of death". Therefore, it is better to install only 64-bit drivers.
    In fact, for home computers the performance increase is not as significant as we would like; it is clearly noticeable in mathematical calculations, for example, but in Everyday life is practically unnoticeable, moreover, given that most programs are now 32-bit, the computer may slow down. This is due to the peculiarity of executing 32-bit programs on a 64-bit system. Therefore, at the moment it is more desirable to install a 32-bit system (since the 32-bit analogue of 64-bit bit program can be found almost always, but the opposite is not always true).
    For home computers, there is one exception to the rule - you must install a 64-bit OS if the amount of RAM on your computer is more than 3 gigabytes. 32 bit systems cannot address memory larger than 4 GB, in fact - no more than 3 GB (memory distribution feature). You can enable "advanced" addressing (PAE), but this is a "crutch" that does not always work.
    Conclusion: if you have 4 GB or more, set it to 64 bit Windows 7, in other cases we set it to 32-bit.

    Deciding on the edition of Windows 7

    Not everything is clear here - even “home” users have different needs. Therefore, we will explain the features of each edition, based on the table above. As you can see, in the table the “features” of the system are grouped in such a way that the subsequent edition contains all the features that were in the previous one (unlike the table on the Microsoft website - it is grouped there by categories (“entertainment”, “opportunities”, etc. .d.), but the comparison is somewhat difficult. Therefore, for those who need to look by category, you are welcome here:
    http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/compare?T1=tab20
    All editions allow you to simultaneously run an unlimited number of applications (as long as your computer resources allow).
    Note. All links to the Microsoft website that will be in the article are recommended to be opened in Internet Explorer.

    Windows 7 Starter

    Improved taskbar and jump lists is a feature that allows you to quickly jump to frequently used files. The contents of the jump list depend on the specific program. To view the Jump List, you can right-click on the program icon in the taskbar or call it from the Start menu:
    The improved taskbar is a redesigned view (compared to previous versions Windows) with improved functionality (which is expanded in more “advanced” editions).
    Windows Search: A tool for finding files on your computer. Includes indexing services to speed up file searches. Available in the upper right corner of the window.
    Joining a HomeGroup: provides the ability to join a computer to a homegroup. Home group is a tool that makes it easier to set up shared access to files and folders, as well as printers on your home network (that is, between computers in your apartment/house). Readers of MirSovetov should understand that Windows Starter only supports joining a homegroup, but not creating them!
    Archiving and recovery: archiving program important files(both yours and system ones) so that they can be restored if necessary. You can choose which files and folders you want to archive. You can also make an emergency copy of the entire system (system snapshot) with installed drivers, programs... In order to have fewer problems with reinstallation if something happens.
    Support Center: built-in program for displaying important Windows notifications that require user attention. These notifications pop up mainly when there are any violations in the system that threaten its security or normal functioning, as well as when there are updates on the Microsoft website. The support center also offers ways to solve problems that have arisen and routinely maintain your computer, allowing it to maintain normal operation.

    Device management: When you connect a device, a window may appear that groups the most frequently used functions for that device. For example, if you have an MFP (printer-scanner-copier), then when you connect it, you may see various parameters scanning and printing. IN earlier versions Windows it was spread in different menus, which still need to be reached. An example of this function on the Microsoft website:
    http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/device-stage
    Streaming media files, including Play To technology: streaming– this is when a file is played on one computer (broadcast server), and other computers act as receivers. It turns out something like a radio broadcast, but on a local network. PlayTo technology allows you to choose which computer to play the specified file on, i.e. allows you to personalize your broadcast. You can admire the PlayTo technology by downloading a demo video from the Microsoft website:
    http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/features/play-to
    Bluetooth support: support for Bluetooth devices.
    Basic set of games: standard set games (Klondike, Minesweeper, Spider...).
    Credential Manager: allows you to work with user accounts (add, change name, set password and other account-related features).

    Aero Snap: a very useful function, according to MirSovetov: rapid change window sizes when dragging them to the edges of the screen. For example, when you need to view two Word documents side by side at the same time: previously you had to adjust the sizes manually, now you just drag one document to the left, and the second to right side screen. When you “drag” the windows from these positions, the windows will restore their former size. Oddly enough, it is available even on systems that do not have an Aero interface.

    Demonstration (video) on the Microsoft website:
    http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/features/snap
    In addition, in the Initial version you cannot change the wallpaper on your desktop. The initial version is usually supplied on netbooks, but on them it is quite possible to replace it with some more powerful edition. There are also restrictions on running some applications, for example, some games do not run on this OS.

    Windows 7 Home Basic

    Includes everything that is in the Primary, and in addition to this a number of possibilities.
    "Live" thumbnails in the taskbar: When you hover and hold the cursor over the program icon in the taskbar, a window thumbnail appears showing what the program is currently doing. Video playback can even occur in this window. One program can have several thumbnails if several windows are open in it. In short, these are something like screenshots of a window in the taskbar:

    Fast user switching: support for switching to another user without first closing all windows and programs of the current user.
    Connect to wireless networks on the fly: When you left-click on the wireless networks icon in the taskbar, a list of available wireless networks (and information about them in tooltips) that you can connect to is displayed
    Internet Connection Sharing: the ability to access the Internet of the same network, connected to the Internet.
    Multiple monitor support: displaying the Windows desktop and programs on other monitors connected to this computer; There is various options display. These options can be accessed by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting “screen resolution”:

    In this case, the system has one monitor. If there were several of them, then next to the monitor with the number 1, a monitor with the number 2 would appear, and in the “screen” drop-down list you would be asked to select the desired monitor.
    Windows Mobility Center: This is for laptops and netbooks, allowing you to access quickly used tasks typical for this type of system:

    This edition does not support equipment for displaying presentations (the ability to connect projectors).

    Windows 7 Home Premium

    Includes everything that is in Home Basic, plus some functionality on top of that.
    Aero Glass and advanced navigation in Windows (Aero Shake and Aero Peek, Aero Snap): Aero Glass is a translucent window display style and animation, with the ability to customize translucency, colors, etc. "for yourself." Aero Shake hides all windows except the selected one. To restore all windows, just “shake” active window. Demonstration (video):
    http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/features/shake
    Aero Peek – “X-ray” for windows – allows you to look “through windows”, while the outlines of windows remain on the screen, but their contents disappear (except for the selected window). Demonstration (video):
    http://windows.microsoft.com/ru-RU/windows7/products/features/peek
    Windows Touch (touch and handwriting): Designed for tablet computers. Allows you to work with the system by clicking on interface elements on the screen.
    Create a homegroup: what is a home group - see the corresponding paragraph in the description of the capabilities of the “initial” edition. In this edition, in addition to joining, you can already create home groups. The fundamental difference is that in the “initial” edition it was impossible to select files and printers to open in this way general access, but in this one it’s possible.
    Windows Media Center: program for quick access to multimedia functions Windows: Watch and record TV, view videos and photos, listen to music... Optimized for use on touchscreen devices.
    Playing and editing DVD video: If you can play a DVD in any edition, providing the appropriate codec if necessary, here this codec is already available out of the box, and is also available under the name DVD Studio.

    Extended set of games: chess, mahjong, backgammon and others are added to the standard games.
    Scissors, Notes:“Scissors” not only allows you to select any area of ​​the screen and take a screenshot only from this area. Sticky notes are like “sticky notes” on your desktop for memory. This function will be useful for MirSovetov readers who own tablet PCs - you can take notes by hand.
    Windows Sideshow (on additional display): technology for receiving and displaying data from a computer on other displays. For example, displaying a photo from a computer in a photo frame.

    Windows 7 Professional

    Includes all the features of Home Extended, with a number of others added.
    Location-based printing: Let's say you're using a laptop and connecting it to the network at work. There is a printer at work, there is a printer at home. Previously, you had to reconfigure the printer every time or, in best case scenario, select the appropriate default printer. With this feature, Windows remembers which network the printer is connected to and when reconnection to this network automatically restores settings for it.
    Joining a domain and group policies: allows you to configure group policies (sets of rules in accordance with which the Windows environment is configured, typical for multi-user systems) and the ability to enter a computer into a domain (a domain is a group of computers with the same security policies).
    Remote desktop connections (host): allows you to remotely connect to a computer and work on remote computer as if you were behind him.
    The prefix "host" means that the computer can act as the one to be connected to using the remote desktop feature.
    Advanced archiving (network and group policies): everything is the same as in regular archiving, but to this is added the ability to archive network settings and group policies.
    Encrypting File System (EFS): allows you to encrypt your files and folders from other users (when using file sharing NTFS systems). How and why to encrypt is, rather, the topic of a separate article.
    Windows Mobility Center: a presentation mode has been added (what a “mobility center” is – see the description of the Home Basic Edition) makes it possible to display an image on a projector:

    Offline folders: the ability to automatically copy the contents of server files to disk local computer; the user will be able to access the files even if the server on which they are stored goes offline. Periodically, Windows synchronizes files in offline folders with the contents of files on the server.
    Windows XP Mode: allows you to run the Windows XP operating system in a Windows 7 environment. And work with it as if you had it installed - i.e. install programs there, run games for XP, etc. At the same time, there is a “transparent” connection with Windows 7: for example, you can easily copy files from Win7 to Win XP (and vice versa) by simply dragging them from the Win7 desktop to Win XP and vice versa.
    This function can also work as a means of launching programs in the Windows 7 environment: the Windows XP window does not open, but all conditions under which the program would run on real XP are emulated, which is not achieved by the options on the “compatibility” tab. To be fair, it is worth noting that there are few such programs.
    This feature requires Virtual installations PC – virtualization tools.
    Note for a professional. Starting with this version, the distribution includes such useful snap-ins as lusrmgr.msc (Manage local users and groups), gpedit.msc (Group Policy Editor), secpol.msc (Security Policies).

    Windows 7 Ultimate and Enterprise

    versions include everything that is in the Professional version, and to this:
    BitLocker and BitLocker To Go: These are tools for protecting and encrypting data on hard drives (BitLocker) and USB storage devices (BitLocker To Go). A conversation about how it works and how it is configured is beyond the scope of this article. Most home users don't need these programs (unless you work with data that you don't want anyone to access).
    AppLocker: This is an addition to group policies that determines which applications can/cannot run on computers on the network. Tool for administrators, managed from Windows console Power Shell is absolutely not necessary for the average user, if only to prevent children from launching toys. But this is a “cannon against sparrows” - there are more convenient means.
    DirectAccess: allows you to gain access from home to the organization’s internal network using special server. Again, the average user does not need it.
    BranchCache: caches data from remote servers on local network resources. Saves working time on downloading files, sometimes improves the performance of web applications. Why is this on a home computer?
    Multilingual user interface ( language packs): allows you to install localization packages, as a result of which each user can select their own native language on one computer. Relevant for transnational companies.
    "Corporate" search: search on the organization's network, incl. in databases, etc., with a high degree of compliance of the returned result with the requested one.
    Deployment improvements virtual environments(VDI): a technology that allows you to save on application licensing (and some other things) - when virtual computers are deployed on one server, users work with them in the same way as if they were “real”.
    Booting from virtual hard disks (VHD): virtual HDD– this is a file, one might say, an image, which has its own file system, data, etc. Mainly used in virtual machines. But with this function you can boot Windows 7 from such a file. Allows you to have several without special expenses copies of Windows, independent of each other, on one “real” (physical) hard drive.
    Yes, I would like to note that Windows Player Media Player available in all versions of Windows 7. Also recently it became possible to choose desired browser at Windows installation 7 (the so-called “browser selection dialog”), almost all popular browsers are available to choose from (Opera, Chrome, Firefox, IE...).

    Which version of Windows 7 should I choose?

    This is where we will finish the description of the “tricks” of the various editions. Let's summarize. But before that, let’s divide the user audience into groups. The division is very arbitrary and characterizes the main range of tasks that the user solves in everyday life. The breakdown itself was somehow imperceptibly derived by the author over 7 years of work in the IT field, perhaps it is somewhat subjective:
    • Category 1: Beginners / Regular users. They are either just starting to learn the basics of working with a computer, or they use the computer as a typewriter and for browsing the Internet. They periodically watch films, listen to music;
    • Category 2: Advanced Users/Interested. “Just working” with a computer is no longer enough for them; they are looking for ways to make this work faster, more convenient, and easier. And also in many cases they try to understand “how it works” and “what else can be done”;
    • category 3: IT professionals / students of IT specialties. For them, computers are a profession. They use it to do everything - from hammering nails with a computer to developing large systems control something and security systems. They tend to require more features from the operating system.
    For category 1, the best choice, according to MirSovetov, would be Windows 7 Home Premium - it has everything you need for work and entertainment and even a little more. At the same time, you don’t overpay for functionality you don’t need, which you won’t use anyway.
    For category 2, this edition is also attractive, although Windows 7 Professional would be suitable for them. But “Professional” costs almost 1.5 times more than “Home Advanced”.
    Category 3 is more suitable for Windows 7 Professional - very often they need functions that are only available in “Professional”.
    Windows 7 Ultimate can be recommended to those who work in a large organization as at least a system administrator or want to encrypt data with using BitLocker“out of the box”, without having to worry about purchasing and configuring third-party software, which is not always able to work as expected (i.e., it may be incompatible with this version of Windows).
    Why don’t we recommend “Initial” and “Home Basic” to any of MirSovet’s readers? Because, in our opinion, these are slightly inferior systems, greatly reduced and devoid of useful functions that are often needed in the modern world. It's just a matter of saving money. In addition, the “Initial” edition is not sold in Russia and the CIS.
    All of the above is not presented as truth in the highest authority, the choice is yours, given that many do not buy Windows, but download from various Internet resources - there is no question of saving money here. Well, those who honestly buy an OS should approach the choice of editors responsibly, because the money is yours and overpaying for something that you will never use is stupid, to say the least.
    Exceptions (where would we be without them!). If you have Tablet PC or a device with a touch screen - you'd better install at least Windows 7 Home Premium. If you need a presentation function (seamless connection of a projector), then it would seem that your choice is “Professional”? Not necessary. Of all the features of this edition, you only need one function - and pay almost double the amount for it? Wouldn't it be easier to use a third-party utility - it comes with almost every projector and laptop?

    Current official prices can be found here:
    http://www.microsoftstore.ru/shop/ru-RU?WT.mc_id=StoreCountryToggle_RU

    Microsoft went along traditional way: the new OS will be released in two versions - for home and corporate use. As with Vista, versions of Windows 7 vary in price in proportion to their features and options. Let us recall that this scheme initially deprived users of the Enterprise version of some useful applications, such as a media center, while the Home Premium version included it. But this time the developers decided to use a different scheme, reminiscent of a nesting doll: minimal features are offered in the Starter version, a little more in Home Basic. And what is in Professional will also be in Enreprise, but there will be fewer games.

    Version comparison table

    Editorial/Method of DistributionWindows 7 StarterWindows 7 Home BasicWindows 7 Home PremiumWindows 7 ProfessionalWindows 7 EnterpriseWindows 7 Ultimate
    Sale only under OEM licenses Retail sales and OEM licenses (only in emerging markets, including Russian) Retail sales and OEM licenses Retail, OEM and corporate licenses in "boxed" versions Licensed for business Sales at retail and under OEM licenses in “boxed” versions
    Availability of 64-bit version No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Maximum RAM size (for 64-bit versions) 2 GB (for 32-bit version) 8 GB 16 GB 128 GB 128 GB 128 GB
    Windows Recovery Center No domain support No domain support No domain support Yes Yes Yes
    Home Group feature (create and join a group) Join only Join only Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Windows Aero interface No Basic theme only Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Multiple monitor support No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Quickly switch between users No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Possibility of change background picture desktop No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Desktop Manager No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Windows Mobility Center No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Multitouch and improved handwriting recognition No No Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Windows Media Center No No Yes Yes Yes Yes
    Additional games No No Yes Disabled by default Disabled by default Yes
    Windows XP Emulator(Windows XP Mode) No No No Yes Yes Yes
    EFS (data encryption system) No No No Yes Yes Yes
    Printing based on location information No No No Yes Yes Yes
    Ability to act as a Remote Desktop host No No No Yes Yes Yes
    Connecting to a domain No No No Yes Yes Yes
    Possibility of downgrading to Vista or XP No No No Yes Yes Yes
    Multi-processor support No No No Yes Yes Yes
    AppLocker No No No No Yes Yes
    BitLocker and BitLocker To Go No No No No Yes Yes
    Branch Cache No No No No Yes Yes
    DirectAccess No No No No Yes Yes
    Multilingual user environment No No No No Yes Yes
    Booting from VHD (image file Microsoft Virtual PC) No No No No Yes Yes
    Launching the lusrmgr.msc (Local Users and Groups) snap-in No No No Yes Yes Yes
    Launching gpedit.msc (Local Group Policy Editor) snap-in No No No Yes Yes Yes

    Brief information

    Windows Aero— Desktop design Aero is a combination of lightweight translucent windows with powerful graphics capabilities. Aero lets you not only enjoy stunning visual effects, but also take advantage of more easy access to programs. Desktop Manager(eng. Desktop Window Manager, DWM), formerly Desktop Compositing Engine, DCE - a graphical desktop interface system in Windows Vista and Windows 7, which is used in graphical interface Windows Aero.

    Windows Mobility Center- Mobility Center contains several of the most commonly used laptop settings, including brightness, speaker volume, battery status, and wireless network connection. Depending on the system configuration, it displays several partitions, and several more may be added by the laptop manufacturer

    Multi-touch(eng. multitouch or multi-touch) - technology by which touch screen or the touchpad tracks multiple pressure points simultaneously. For example, by bringing your fingers closer together, you can reduce the image on the display, and by moving your fingers apart, you can increase it. In addition, multi-touch screens allow multiple users to work with the device simultaneously.

    Windows Media Center- Use of all Media capabilities Center lets you turn your computer into a full-featured home entertainment center. For example, to ensure maximum efficient use Media Center, you can connect your computer to your HDTV and control all functions using the remote control Media management Center without leaving the couch. .

    Encrypting File System(EFS)- Encrypting File System (EFS) is Windows component, which allows you to save information on your hard drive in an encrypted format. Encryption is the strongest protection Windows provides to protect your data.

    Windows Domain— A domain is a collection of computers on a network, which are managed as a single whole using general rules and actions. Each domain has a unique name. Typically, domains are used to create networks in the workplace. To join a computer to a domain, you must know the domain name and have a valid domain account.

    AppLocker- to provide IT specialists with control over the applications running by users.

    BitLocker and BitLocker To Go- BitLocker Drive Encryption is used to protect all files stored on the Windows OS drive (OS drive) and on non-Windows drives. removable drives(for example, internal hard drives). BitLocker encryption To Go is used to protect all files stored on removable drives (for example, external hard disks or USB flash memory devices).

    BranchCache- for faster access to files

    DirectAccess— to support communication with mobile users on the go

    — use to load the Windows operating system - a VHD file containing a virtual operating system with complete structure and contents similar to hard disk.

    Multilingual User Environment (MUI)- Windows 7 MUI packages contain a translated version of most elements user interface. MUI packages require a license and are only available for Windows 7 Ultimate and Windows 7 Enterprise. If you are using Windows 7 Enterprise, contact your system administrator for information about installing additional languages

    gpedit.msc- Local Group Policy Editor is a Microsoft Management Console (MMC) snap-in that provides a single interface for managing all Local Group Policy object settings.

    lusrmgr.msc— Equipment " Local users and Groups" is used to create and manage users and groups stored locally on your computer

    For each version of its operating system, Microsoft creates several distributions (editions) that differ in price and functionality. They differ in the set of tools and capabilities that users receive. The simplest releases contain various restrictions to use large amounts of RAM. This article discusses what versions of Windows 7 there are (professional, basic home, and so on) and what differences they have.

    Exist different versions Windows 7, only 6 pieces. Each of them has limitations on processor power and the amount of installed RAM, and its own arsenal of capabilities. IN this review differences between versions of Windows 7 will be considered, except for the two most expensive ones, since Maximum and Enterprise are rarely used and only by specialists who are already well versed in this.

    General information

    IN this list describes which distributions you can purchase or download from the Internet. Brief comparison Windows 7 versions:


    The last 2 versions of Windows 7 are not considered in this review.

    Initial

    As written above, Basic is the cheapest version. If you download pirated version operating system, it is recommended to select anything other than this.

    Firstly, unlike all subsequent versions, this distribution practically does not allow you to customize the OS to suit your needs. Secondly, there are huge restrictions on the configuration of a personal computer. You cannot install the 64-bit version, so the features of the powerful process will not be available. Windows will not see more than 2 gigabytes of RAM.

    In addition to this, you will not be able to change standard image on the desktop. In addition, all windows will be opaque, like in Windows XP. This is a good solution for owners of very old and weak computers. However, do not forget that by purchasing a more advanced release, you can disable all its bells and whistles at any time, essentially turning it into Basic.

    home Basic

    If you are using your Personal Computer only for office work or entertainment and do not intend to engage in fine tuning, Homemade is an excellent choice. Users get the opportunity to install the 64-bit version. Such a system already supports a fairly significant amount of RAM (8 gigabytes for 64-bit and 4 GB for 32-bit).

    Support has also been added, but there is still no ability to configure anything here, so the interface will look somewhat outdated. Unlike Initial, useful functions have been added here, such as:

    • Fast user switching – allows several people to work comfortably on one PC at once.
    • Multiple monitor support is a very handy feature if you have a second monitor.
    • Desktop Manager.
    • Ability to change your desktop background.

    However, this is also not the best choice For modern user. Quite limited functionality, lack of applications for playing media content, small amount of physical memory are a huge minus. These two versions of Windows 7 are rarely used.

    Home Extended

    Home Premium is the ideal choice for the vast majority of users. The amount of RAM is limited to 16 gigabytes, which is enough even for the most modern games and demanding applications. The distribution also has all the functions that are present in the above-described editions.

    In this version of Windows 7, in addition to them, the following useful things have been added:


    Professional

    If you have a modern and powerful personal computer and you are thinking about which version to download, pay attention to Professional. There are practically no restrictions on the amount of RAM used (128 gigabytes is enough for anyone). Starting with this release, Windows can work with multiple processors simultaneously (not to be confused with multi-core).

    Also added here great amount useful tools that may be useful to advanced users, as well as those who like to delve into the settings of their operating system. It is now possible to create a backup copy of the OS on a local network and start Windows recovery remotely.