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Almost three years of Windows 7 articles, tips, commentaries, reviews, and screenshot galleries...

Windows 7 Service Pack 1 Beta

July 29, 2010

I've gotten a lot of email about the recently released Window 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1) Beta, which is interesting because this update doesn't add a single meaningful new end user feature to Microsoft's popular new Windows version. Due in Q1 2011, Windows 7 SP1 is essentially just an update rollup, one that doesn't change the system's user experience at all. Here's what the install process is like.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Live Essentials 2011

July 23, 2010

Available as an optional download, Windows Live Essentials 2011 is an application suite that includes a number of new versions of classic Windows applications, including Windows Live Mail, Photo Gallery, Messenger, Movie Maker, Family Safety, and more. And the 2011 version, currently in beta, is the best yet.

The Slate PC: Haven't We Been Down This Road Before?

July 27, 2010

With the success of Apple's iPad, the PC industry is going slate crazy. HP has two types of slate PCs on tap, one based on Windows 7 and one on WebOS. And Microsoft is going to carpet-bomb the market with different kinds of Windows, just to see what sticks. There's just one problem: Customers have already voted against Windows on slates. Why are we doing this again?

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Use the Reliability Monitor to Find What's Wrong with Your PC

July 23, 2010

The Reliability Monitor is well-hidden in Windows 7, but can be very useful if you want to find out what's going wrong with your PC. In addition to identifying the exact causes of reliability issues, it can often deliver fixes for those problems and, if not, alert you when such a fix does become available.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Live Essentials 2011

July 23, 2010

Available as an optional download, Windows Live Essentials 2011 is an application suite that includes a number of new versions of classic Windows applications, including Windows Live Mail, Photo Gallery, Messenger, Movie Maker, Family Safety, and more. And the 2011 version, currently in beta, is the best yet.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Get a Free Power Efficiency Report for Your PC

July 17, 2010

Windows 7 includes a little-known command line utility called powercfg.exe that can, among other things, provide you with a power efficiency diagnostics report that details which applications, processes, and drivers are wrecking havoc with your PC's power management capabilities.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Recovery Environment and Startup Repair

July 17, 2010

In Windows 7, the Windows Recovery Environment is installed into the OS partition automatically, providing access to a suite of recovery tools including the excellent Startup Repair, which automatically fixes boot problems and returns the PC to its normal booting state.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Restore Windows 7 Without the Crapware

July 10, 2010

Saddled by a PC maker-supplied version of Windows 7 with crapware? Fear not, with Backup and Restore and a little know-how, you can restore your PC cleanly.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Internet Explorer 8

July 9, 2010

Windows 7 ships with the latest version of Microsoft's web browser, Internet Explorer 8, which offers such new features as the Favorites Bar, Web Slices, and more.

Hands On with Windows InTune

July 6, 2010

I've been using the beta version of Windows InTune to manage my own systems for the past month, and there's a lot to like about Microsoft's simple and logical cloud-based management service.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Save Time and Money with Windows Anytime Upgrade

July 3, 2010

You can upgrade your current version of Windows 7 to a higher-end product edition more quickly and cheaply with WAU.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Troubleshooting

July 3, 2010

Windows Troubleshooting is a new Windows 7 feature that diagnoses and resolves common operating system and hardware issues.

Windows 8: A First Peek

June 28, 2010

We're still a year away from the first beta, but this week an astonishing amount of information about Windows 8 suddenly leaked online. Here's what we found out about the next Windows.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Save Even More Money with a TechNet Standard Subscription

June 19, 2010

Now there's an even cheaper way to acquire multiple Windows 7 licenses: It's called TechNet Subscriptions Standard.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Hardware Support

June 19, 2010

Windows 7 provides many unique features related to hardware device support, including Device Stage, Devices and Printers, location-aware printing, improved power management, and more.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Personalize the Taskbar

June 11, 2010

With Windows 7, you can pin and unpin whatever shortcuts you want to the taskbar, order them as you wish, and perform other customizations.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: User Account Control

June 11, 2010

No Windows feature is as controversial, perhaps, as User Account Control. But this functionality has been in UNIX systems for years, and helps to keep your PC secure.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Get Free TV Content with Media Center

June 4, 2010

You don't need a TV tuner to enjoy TV content in Media Center: Instead, check out free TV and video options like Internet TV and Netflix.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Tablet PC and Windows Touch

June 4, 2010

Windows 7 includes the latest iteration of Microsoft's Tablet PC technologies as well as a new feature called Windows Touch that adds multi-touch capabilities.

The New Windows Live Essentials

June 3, 2010

In this extensive, multi-part review, I examine the new version of Windows Live Essentials, which will debut this summer and light up Windows 7 with new capabilities and online services integration.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Personalize Your Desktop with Wallpaper and Aero Themes

May 28, 2010

There are a number of new and improved customization options in Windows 7, but two of the most obvious are desktop wallpapers and Aero Themes.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Use SkyDrive with Windows Explorer (Part 2)

May 21, 2010

This second take on Explorer/SkyDrive integration doesn't require you to install a third party application or own Office 2010.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Access the Taskbar with Keyboard Shortcuts

May 14, 2010

Many people aren't aware that you can control the taskbar without ever touching the mouse. Here's how to make it work.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Virtual PC and Windows XP Mode

May 8, 2010

Windows 7 provides the final piece of the compatibility puzzle with Windows Virtual PC and Windows XP Mode, a virtualization solution that brings XP to Windows 7.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Create Fun Panoramic Photos

May 7, 2010

Windows Live Photo Gallery is a great photo management and editing solution, but it has a few fun hidden features, like panoramic photo stitching.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Media Player

May 1, 2010

In Windows 7, Windows Media Player picks up new features like shell integration, new codec support, a Now Playing Mode, Play To, and Internet media sharing.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Use SkyDrive with Windows Explorer

April 30, 2010

They're two great tastes that go together: Windows 7 and Windows Live SkyDrive. Microsoft doesn't make it easy, but here's how you can get them connected.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Find Your Way in Explorer with Breadcrumbs

April 23, 2010

Understanding the Windows 7 Explorer address bar, or breadcrumb bar, is key to making shell navigation easier than ever.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: PC-to-PC Sync

April 16, 2010

Windows 7 includes backup and data protection functionality, but it's missing PC-to-PC sync capabilities. Fortunately, there are some excellent free solutions.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: ReadyBoost

April 17, 2010

Windows 7 improves on the ReadyBoost feature from Vista by adding some new functionality, including support for SD, multiple devices, and over 4GB of storage.

Windows 7 Service Pack 1 Pre-Beta

April 13, 2010

The first pre-beta version of Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1) has leaked, and as promised there are no noticeable functional changes. Here are some screenshots of the Setup experience.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Save Money on Multiple Windows 7 Installs with TechNet Plus

April 10, 2010

If you need to install three or more copies of Windows 7, you can save big bucks by purchasing a TechNet Plus subscription.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Problem Steps Recorder

April 9, 2010

Windows 7 includes a new utility called the Problem Steps Recorder that helps support personnel to provide a fix without physically having to visit the desktop.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Smarter File Copying

April 2, 2010

Dragging and dropping files can have different results depending on the location of the target. Here's how you can ensure that you always do what you mean to do.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Backup and Restore

March 27, 2010

Windows 7 Backup and Restore supports both data backup and image-based system backup, but now the capabilities are more consistent across product editions..

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Using Aero Snaps with Multi-Monitor ... And Other Keyboard Shortcuts

March 26, 2010

Aero Snaps is a great feature, but if you're using a multi-monitor setup, there's no easy way to make it work with a mouse.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Checkbox Select

March 19, 2010

A Tablet PC-based checkbox selection feature is now its available in all Windows 7 versions, and it's useful even if you're not using a tablet- or touch-based system.

Test Drive: A Look at the IE 9 Platform Preview

March 16, 2010

This week, Microsoft delivered a developer-oriented platform preview of Internet Explorer 9 that offers barn-burning performance and better standards support.

Windows 7 Annoyances

March 15, 2010

In this article from Windows IT Pro Magazine, I highlight some annoyances in Windows 7 for users upgrading from Windows XP. And let's face it: Some things have changed a lot since XP.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Full Screen Toggle

March 12, 2010

While some users know that they can use the F11 key to toggle full-screen mode in Internet Explorer, many don't realize that the same shortcut works elsewhere too.

Making Windows 7 Home Premium the Ultimate OS, Part 4: Disk Encryption

March 11, 2010

In Part 4 of this series, I take a look at some add-ons that can replace BitLocker and BitLocker To Go disk encryption.

Making Windows 7 Home Premium the Ultimate OS, Part 3: Remote Access

March 6, 2010

In Part 3 of this series, I take a look at some add-ons that can replace the Remote Desktop Host remote access utility.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Computer Management

March 5, 2010

Computer Management is an MMC-based tool that combines a number of admin utilities into a single UI. But you have to know it exists before you can use it.

Making Windows 7 Home Premium the Ultimate OS, Part 2: Backup

March 4, 2010

In Part 2 of this series, I take a look at some add-on utilities that can replace Windows Backup and provide PC-to-PC file synchronization functionality.

Making Windows 7 Home Premium the Ultimate OS

March 4, 2010

Introducing a new mini-series about turning the most mainstream Windows 7 version into a more capable product with Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate features.

Windows 7 Deployment: Application Compatibility

March 2, 2010

Any business that is considering a Windows 7 deployment will have many issues to consider. Key among these issues is application compatibility.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Windows 7 Essentials

February 26, 2010

Thanks to free downloads like Windows Live Essentials and Microsoft Security Essentials, you can complete Windows 7 by adding more applications and features.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Customize Pinned Taskbar Shortcuts

February 19, 2010

In previous Windows versions, you could customize application shortcuts via a context-menu link. But it's possible to...

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Search the Internet with Start Menu Search

February 12, 2010

Normally, Start Menu Search can only be used to search for programs and files. But you can also use it to trigger Internet searches using your default browser.

Windows Activation Technologies Update for Windows 7

February 11, 2010

Microsoft is updating the anti-piracy technologies in Windows 7 to thwart new hacks and exploits. But the big news is that the update will always be optional.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Run Windows Live Messenger from the Notification Area

February 6, 2010

By default, Windows Live Messenger doesn't work the same way in Windows 7 as it did in previous versions of Windows.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: HomeGroup

February 4, 2010

Windows 7 consolidates the most common sharing tasks--sharing documents, digital media files, and printers--into a single interface called HomeGroup.

Windows 7 Success Doesn't Lift Businesses, Wider Industry

February 2, 2010

Windows 7 powered a blockbuster quarter for Microsoft, but it didn't help the company's other business units, its corporate customers, or PC makers.

Windows 7 Feature Focus: Libraries

January 31, 2010

With Windows 7, Microsoft has realized its goal to replace static folders with virtualized shell locations that aggregate content from a variety of physical locations. This feature is called Libraries.

Windows 7 Tip of the Week

January 29, 2010

My latest weekly series is a tie-in with the Windows Weekly podcast, and will provide one new Windows 7 tip each week: If I publish your tip, I'll send you a free copy of Windows 7 Secrets!

Inside Windows 7: The Mark Russinovich Interview

January 13, 2010

Microsoft Technical Fellow Mark Russinovich discusses the development of Windows 7 in an exclusive interview with Windows IT Pro Magazine.

Best Technology of 2009: Windows 7

December 30, 2009

2009 was no time in which to launch a new desktop operating system. And yet, that's exactly what Microsoft did with Windows 7, with dramatically positive results.

The Tale of the Wonderful, Magical, Mystery Tablet PC

December 8, 2009

There have been a lot of silly rumors about an Apple tablet device lately. But if you're in the market for such a thing, it already exists. We call it "a PC".

Best of Both Worlds: Windows 7 on the Mac

December 4, 2009

Switching to the Mac doesn't mean you have to give up on Windows 7. In fact, over 80 percent of Mac users run Windows too. Here's how to make it happen.

Windows 7: Past, Present and Future

November 27, 2009

A look at the lessons Microsoft learned developing Windows 7 and how it will apply those lessons to Windows 8 and other future products.

Internet Explorer 9 Preview

November 18, 2009

Microsoft this week unveiled a very early version of Internet Explorer 9 and major initiatives around performance, standards compliance, and hardware acceleration.

No OEM For You: Windows 7 OEM Packaging is Not For Individuals

November 14, 2009

Microsoft has dramatically changed its OEM licensing in the past year, and it's not really possible for individuals to legally use this type of Windows 7 Setup disc.

The Windows 7 Netbook Experience

November 11, 2009

I recently purchased a Windows 7 Starter-based netbook and upgraded it with more RAM, an SD card, and Windows Anytime Upgrade. It's a simple upgrade and makes a big difference.

Major Update: Clean Install Windows 7 with Upgrade Media

November 5, 2009

In this major update to my guide to clean installing Windows 7 with Upgrade media, I provide everything you need to know to make it work.

Windows 7 vs. Mac OS X Snow Leopard, Part 2: Pricing

November 4, 2009

In Part 2 of my OS Deathmatch series, I examine the pricing of both Windows 7 and Mac OS X and arrive at some bad news for Windows fans.

Windows 7 Upgrade Scenarios: Upgrade from the Windows 7 RC to the Final Version

November 2, 2009

Interested in upgrading from the Windows 7 Release Candidate to the final version? I'll show you how.

Windows 7 Upgrade Scenarios: Upgrade a Netbook to Windows 7

October 31, 2009

Here's another common Windows 7 upgrade scenario: You want to upgrade a Windows XP-based netbook to Windows 7 using Upgrade media.

Windows 7 Upgrade Scenarios: Upgrade from 32-bit Windows Vista/XP to 64-bit Windows 7

October 29, 2009

Another common Windows 7 upgrade need: Going from a 32-bit Windows Vista/XP version to a 64-bit Windows 7 version.

Windows 7 Upgrade Scenarios: From a Higher-End Vista/XP Version to a Lower-End Windows 7 Version

October 28, 2009

Here's one that will bite many potential upgraders: You want to upgrade from Vista (or XP) to a lower-end Windows 7 version.

Windows 7 Upgrade Scenarios

October 28, 2009

Introducing a new series that will examine the many ways in which you can upgrade to Windows 7. There are more questions about this process than you may suspect. Let's find some answers.

Clean Install Windows 7 with Upgrade Media

October 22-25, 2009

Major update: Microsoft is still making it difficult to clean install Windows 7 with Upgrade media. But fear not, there is some good news. Assuming you know the trick.

Windows 7: Live from the Launch

October 22, 2009

Today's the day! Microsoft launches Windows 7 at a gala event in New York City. Here are some photos from the event.

Windows 7 Media Center: Netflix and Internet TV

October 21, 2009

Microsoft has quietly updated Windows Media Center in Windows 7 with with lots of new content via the Netflix and Internet TV services.

Windows 7 Review, Part 12: Wrapping Up

October 16, 2009

It all comes down to this: Windows 7 is the right product at the right time, an astonishing accomplishment that will delight PC users.

Welcome to the Party!

October 13, 2009

Come to New York City on October 22 and celebrate the Windows 7 Launch with Ed Bott, Mary Jo Foley, Paul Thurrott, and Tom Warren. We'll be partying at Antarctica, right on the Hudson.

Windows 7 Review, Part 11: Compatibility and Reliability

October 11, 2009

All of the excellent new functionality in Windows 7 would come to naught if it didn't offer pervasive compatibility and reliability functionality as well.

Windows 7 Review, Part 10: Bundled Applications

October 7, 2009

Windows 7 includes some updated bundled applications, but you'll have to look elsewhere to find some applications that have gone missing since Windows Vista.

The New Efficiency

October 6, 2009

For all the feel good vibes around Windows 7 this year, it's interesting to me that Microsoft is essentially returning to an old and time-tested routine when it comes to marketing this product to businesses.

Windows 7 Review, Part 9: Mobility and Touch

October 4, 2009

Windows 7 is the best-ever version of Windows for on-the-go computing, and it comes with amazing mobile features, as well as a new Windows Touch interface.

Windows 7 Review, Part 8: Digital Media Features

September 30, 2009

Windows 7 comes jam-packed with digital media features, including Libraries, home network- and Internet-based media sharing, and much more.

Lenovo, Windows 7, and the Death of Crapware

September 29, 2009

Lenovo's Windows 7-based ThinkPads replace OS utilities with more capable tools, providing a better user experience.

Microsoft Security Essentials Review

September 28, 2009

Microsoft Security Essentials is free, effective, lightweight, and quiet and is, in other words, exactly what I'm looking for in a security solution.

Windows 7 Sells Itself: A Look at the New Ads

September 28, 2009

Microsoft's first Windows 7 advertisements have appeared, and they're excellent. Check them out, along with a series of promotional videos.

Is Windows 7 Ready for Enterprise Deployment?

September 25, 2009

In another first, Windows 7 is ready for deployment at launch, with the features, stability, performance, compatibility, and cost savings that enterprises require.

Windows 7 Review, Part 7: Internet Features

September 23, 2009

Windows 7 offers a number of Internet features, both bundled with the operating system itself and as essential but optional downloads.

Making the Business Case: Windows 7 and Server 2008 R2

September 16, 2009

Backed by a Forrester study and early IT deployments, Microsoft explains how corporations can save money by upgrading to its latest platforms.

Windows 7 Secrets Now Available for Kindle

September 9, 2009

Amazon has released a version of my latest book, Windows 7 Secrets, for its popular Kindle e-book reader. Buy it today!

Windows 7 Review, Part 6: Performance

September 7, 2009

Windows 7 finally exorcizes the biggest demon from Windows Vista, offering dramatically better performance in a smaller footprint.

Windows 7 Review, Part 5: Security

September 6, 2009

Windows 7 really is a better Vista. It's more secure, but easier to manage, and with better performance and fewer interruptions.

Get a Free Sample Chapter from Windows 7 Secrets!

September 2, 2009

Windows 7 Secrets Chapter 17, Seven To Go: Windows 7 Mobility Features, is now available for download.

Windows 7 Review, Part 4: New User Experiences

August 30, 2009

Windows 7 is prettier, simpler and more efficient than its predecessor.

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The SuperSite Switcher Guide: From Mac OS X to Windows

August 28, 2009

My Switcher Guide is updated for Windows 7 and Mac OS X 10.5 "Snow Leopard"!

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Windows 7 Review, Part 3: Installing, Upgrading & Migrating

August 22, 2009

There are a myriad of ways in which to acquire and install Windows 7.

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Windows Live Movie Maker

August 18, 2009

Microsoft takes the wraps off its new tool for editing videos and photos and sharing them online.

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Windows 7 Review, Part 2: Picking a Product Edition

August 14, 2009

Picking the right Windows 7 product edition isn't as hard as the naysayers claim.

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Windows 7 Screenshots

August 9-13, 2009

Here's a handy front-end for the screenshot galleries I've created for each Windows 7 product edition.

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Windows 7 Ultimate Screenshots

August 13, 2009

A visual look at Windows 7 Ultimate, the "uber" version of Windows 7 for consumers and other individuals.

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Windows 7 Enterprise Screenshots

August 13, 2009

A visual look at Windows 7 Enterprise, the managed Windows 7 offering for enterprises and other businesses.

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Windows 7 Professional Screens

August 12, 2009

A visual look at Windows 7 Professional, the mainstream choice for business users and IT pros.

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Windows 7 Home Premium Screens

August 11, 2009

A visual look at Windows 7 Home Premium, the most compelling Windows 7 choice for consumers worldwide.

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Windows 7 Home Basic Screenshots

August 11, 2009

A visual look at Windows 7 Home Basic, which will only be sold with new PCs in emerging markets.

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Windows 7 Starter Screenshots

August 9, 2009

A visual look at Windows 7 Starter, the low-end Windows 7 version that will only be sold with new netbooks.

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Windows 7 Review

August 8, 2009

My multi-part Windows 7 review opens with an introductory look at Microsoft's best desktop OS ever.

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Windows Virtual PC and Windows XP Mode Release Candidate

August 7, 2009

Find out what's new in the RC version of Virtual PC and XP Mode for Windows 7...

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Upgrading to Windows 7: From XP to Windows 7 (RTM Update)

August 6, 2009

Part two of my Windows 7 upgrade series is updated for the final, shipping version...

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Upgrading to Windows 7 (RTM Update)

August 5, 2009

Part one of my Windows 7 upgrade series is updated for the final, shipping version...

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Windows 7 Pricing (Updated)

August 3, 2009

My Windows 7 pricing overview is updated for the Windows 7 Family Pack and Windows Anytime Upgrade.

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Windows 7 Availability: RTM and Family Pack Update

August 3, 2009

More details about when and how you can get Windows 7 in the days ahead...

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Windows 7 Product Editions Overview: RTM Update

August 3, 2009

My Windows 7 product edition overview is updated for the final shipping version...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Anytime Upgrade

August 2, 2009

My WAU feature focus is thoroughly updated for Windows 7 RTM...

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Windows 7 Product Editions: A Comparison: WAU Update

August 1, 2009

My product edition comparison is updated for Windows Anytime Upgrade pricing...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus RTM Update #4

July 30, 2009

My WEI, Windows Live Essentials, and Taskbar articles are all updated for RTM...

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The Fat Lady Sings: Microsoft Caves ... to Opera?!

July 29, 2009

Would Microsoft bow down to browser also-ran Opera? As it turns out, yes.

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Windows 7 Product Editions: A Comparison: RTM Update

July 28, 2009

The ultimate Windows 7 product edition comparison is updated for RTM...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus RTM Update #3

July 27, 2009

Calculator, Scenic Ribbon, and Windows Gadgets articles are all updated for RTM...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus RTM Update #2

July 26, 2009

Aero Snaps, Aero Themes, and BitLocker To Go articles are all updated for RTM...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus RTM Update

July 25, 2009

Action Center, Aero Peek, and Aero Shake articles are updated for Windows 7 RTM...

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Windows 7 RTM Clean Install Screenshots

July 22, 2009

My first screenshot gallery of the final, shipping version of Windows 7 focuses...

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Microsoft Announces RTM for Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2

July 22, 2009

Steven Sinofsky announces RTM...

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Windows 7 FAQ: Updated with Availability and RTM Info

July 22, 2009

The Windows 7 FAQ has been updated with availability and RTM information!

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Windows 7 Availability

July 22, 2009

Microsoft dribbles out a few more details about when you can get Windows 7...

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Windows Home Server Power Pack 3 Preview

July 21, 2009

Microsoft is adding Windows 7 integration to Windows Home Server...

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Pre-order 'Windows 7 Secrets'!

July 14, 2009

The new book will be available in September. Pre-order on Amazon now and save 37 percent!

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Windows 7 E Editions Preview

July 6, 2009

Are you curious about the Windows 7 E Editions? Check out this sneak peek!

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Windows 7 FAQ: Updated with Pricing Info

June 29, 2009

The Windows 7 FAQ has been updated with numerous retail pricing questions!

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Windows 7 Product Editions Comparison (Updated for Windows Pricing)

June 27, 2009

Updated with retail pricing information!

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Windows 7 Pricing

June 25, 2009

Microsoft announces the retail pricing for Windows 7, as well as info about a money saving promotional pre-order program!

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Microsoft Security Essentials Public Beta

June 18, 2009

Morro hits public beta as Microsoft Security Essentials...

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Windows 7 Build 7232 Screens

June 16, 2009

The end is near! Here's one of the final pre-release builds of Windows 7...

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Windows 7 vs. Mac OS X Snow Leopard, Part 1: Oh, It's On!

June 15, 2009

Apple's talking trash about Windows 7. It's time to find out the truth about these...

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Windows 7: The New NT?

June 9, 2009

I haven't felt this good about a new version of Windows since, well, Windows NT. Is Windows 7 the new NT?

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Windows 7 FAQ: Updated with RTM/GA Info

June 3, 2009

The Windows 7 FAQ has been updated with info about the RTM and GA!

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Windows 7: October 22, 2009

June 2, 2009

It's official: Microsoft will finalize Windows 7 in late July and deliver it to customers on October 22, 2009...

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Windows 7 Starter? That's How They Get You

June 2, 2009

Windows 7 Starter is still hobbled by a ridiculous limitation...

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Windows Touch: Natural PC User Interfaces in Windows 7

May 26, 2009

Windows Touch provides pervasive multi-touch functionality in Windows 7...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Scenic Ribbon, Paint & WordPad

May 19, 2009

The new Scenic Ribbon control in Windows 7 is used by both Paint and WordPad...

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Windows 7 RC Review Part 4: Conclusions

May 17, 2009

The fourth and final part of my Windows 7 RC review is now available...

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Windows 7 Build 7127 Screens

May 16, 2009

Our first look at a post-RC build of Windows 7 reveals no new features and no surprises...

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Upgrading to Windows 7, Part 3 Upgrading from Vista to Windows 7

May 11, 2009

In Part 3 of the series, a look at upgrading Windows Vista in-place to Windows 7...

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Upgrading to Windows 7

May 7, 2009

In this new series, I examine how you can upgrade to Windows 7. Parts 1 (Intro) and 2 (XP upgrades) are now available...

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Microsoft Download-O-Rama!

May 6, 2009

Microsoft has delivered an unprecedented software bounty to its public servers! Gentlemen, start your downloads ...

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Windows XP Mode and Windows Virtual PC Beta

April 30, 2009

Today's release of the XP Mode Beta shows how little has changed since...

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Windows XP Mode for Windows 7 Preview

April 28, 2009

Discover a secret new feature that brings XP app compatibility to Windows 7...

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Windows 7 FAQ: Updated for the Release Candidate

April 26, 2009

Now that the Release Candidate is here, it's time for a major update to the FAQ!

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Windows 7 Release Candidate Review (Parts 1, 2, and 3)

April 26, 2009

The first three parts of my Windows 7 RC review are now available ...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Aero Themes

April 26, 2009

Aero Themes combine desktop backgrounds, Aero glass colors, and ...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus Series Update for RC

April 26, 2009

I've updated the entire Feature Focus series for the Windows 7 RC ...

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Windows 7 Product Editions Comparison (Updated for the Windows 7 RC)

April 26, 2009

Now with even more features differences!

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Windows 7 Release Candidate Screens: Professional

April 25, 2009

Here's a first look at the RC version of Windows 7 Professional...

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Windows 7 Release Candidate Screens: Home Premium

April 25, 2009

Here's a first look at the RC version of Windows 7 Home Premium...

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Windows 7 Release Candidate Screens: Home Basic

April 25, 2009

Here's a first look at the RC version of Windows 7 Home Basic...

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Windows 7 Release Candidate Screens: Starter Edition

April 25, 2009

Here's a first look at the RC version of Windows 7 Starter Edition...

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Windows XP Mode for Windows 7 Screens

April 24, 2009

A first look at a new Windows 7 feature: Windows XP Mode!

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Windows 7 Release Candidate Interactive Setup

April 24, 2009

A look at interactive Setup with the Windows 7 Release Candidate...

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Windows 7 Release Candidate Screens

April 24, 2009

Windows 7 hits its last major pre-release milestone. Here's what you can expect...

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Windows Live Wave 3 Updates: April 2009

April 22, 2009

Microsoft bolsters Windows Live with three key updates, including Web Messenger...

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Windows 7 Build 7106 Screens

April 14, 2009

Microsoft begins working on separate RC and RTM builds of Windows 7. Here's a first look at an RTM-level build...

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With MED-V, Microsoft Moves One Step Closer to the Future of App Compatibility

April 14, 2009

MED-V decouples app compatibility from...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Live Essentials

April 9, 2009

Windows Live Essentials "completes" Windows 7 by offering a compelling...

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Windows 7 Build 7077 Screens

April 8, 2009

Here are some shots of Windows 7 build 7077, the latest interim build of Microsot's next desktop OS...

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Windows 7 Product Editions: A Comparison

March 30, 2009

Finally, a feature-by-feature comparison of the various Windows 7 product editions...

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Windows 7 Build 7068 Screens: Home Basic Edition

March 28, 2009

Here are some shots of Windows 7 Home Premium edition build 7068...

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Windows 7 Build 7068 Screens: Home Premium Edition

March 28, 2009

Here are some shots of Windows 7 Home Premium edition build 7068...

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Windows 7 Build 7068 Screens: Starter Edition

March 28, 2009

Here are some shots of Windows 7 Starter edition build 7068, the bare bones...

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Windows 7 Build 7068 Screens: Professional Edition

March 28, 2009

Here are some shots of Windows 7 Professional edition build 7068...

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Windows 7 Build 7068 Interactive Setup Screens

March 28, 2009

It's been a while since the last leaked build, but here's something new for...

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Internet Explorer 8 Review

March 19, 2009

Microsoft's new Web browser is safer, faster, and more productive...

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Rescue Me: Windows 7 to Improve on Vista Compatibility

March 18, 2009

Windows 7 will actually offer some compatibility advantages over Vista...

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More Windows 7 Build 7057 Screenshots

March 14, 2009

A second look at build 7057, including some user interface evolutions...

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Windows 7 Build 7057 Screens

March 12, 2009

Suddenly, Windows 7 builds are leaking at a rapid clip. Here's a first peak at build 7057, hot off the torrents...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Guest Mode

March 10/February 28, 2009

A hidden Windows 7 feature lets you set up safe user accounts for kids at home...

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Windows 7: Choice is Good

March 10, 2009

Microsoft's decision to allow users to remove key Windows 7 features won't just benefit individuals. It will also be a...

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Windows 7 Build 7048 Notes

March 9, 2009

Now that I've spent more time with this interim Windows 7 build, I've uncovered a few more interesting changes...

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Windows 7 Release Candidate Preview

March 7, 2009

Here's what you need to know about next month's Windows 7 Release Candidate...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: BitLocker To Go

March 5, 2009

Microsoft extends its full-drive encryption functionality to removable storage...

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Windows 7 Build 7048 Screenshots

March 4, 2009

Shots of a new interim build of Windows 7 reveal some changes, including a way to remove IE 8, new wallpaper, and more.

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Windows 7 Build 7032 Screenshots

March 1, 2009

Shots of a new interim build of Windows 7 reveal few changes, including some new icons and lots of new wallpaper...

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Windows 7 for Businesses: When Should You Deploy?

February 17, 2009

The economy is spiraling downward, but it's time to start thinking about...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Taskbar

February 16, 2009

The most controversial new feature in Windows 7 provides a new, less...

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Windows 7 Build 7022 Screenshots

February 11, 2009

Shots of a new interim build of Windows 7 reveal a few changes since the Beta, including some Control Panel and...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Anytime Upgrade

February 10, 2009

Electronic OS upgrades get faster and more automated in Windows 7...

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Shipping Seven, Part 6: Public Beta

Shipping Seven | February 8, 2009

Microsoft ships a public version of Windows 7 and looks to the RC, RTM, and GA releases of its next client OS...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Calculator

February 6, 2009

For the first time in decades, Microsoft significantly updates its Calculator...

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Windows 7 Product Editions

February 3, 2009

Microsoft finally announces which product editions will make up the Windows 7 family...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Experience Index

January 29, 2009

Microsoft continues using this tool of dubious benefit in Windows 7...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Gadgets

January 25, 2009

The Sidebar is gone but Windows Gadgets continue on in Windows 7...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Styles and Desktop Slide Shows

January 19, 2009

Windows 7 makes it easier than ever to customize your PC desktop...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Action Center

January 18, 2009

Action Center builds on the Security Center functionality from Windows...

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Windows Live Essentials 2009 Review

January 17, 2009

Windows Live Esssentials is a must-have companion for all users of Windows...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Aero Shake

January 13, 2009

Aero Snaps is a secret new feature in Windows 7...

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Evaluating the Windows 7 Beta for Business

January 13, 2009

Businesses need to start evaluating the next Windows sooner rather than later.

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Windows 7 Beta Availability

January 7-9, 2009

Update: The Windows 7 Public Beta is now available for download!

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Windows 7 Beta Compatibility

January 4, 2009

The Windows 7 Beta is surprisingly compatible with the hardware and software I use every day...

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Windows 7 Beta Notes and Observations

December 29, 2008

In working with the Windows 7 Beta build, I've noticed a few interesting...

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Windows 7 Beta Review

December 27, 2008

The Windows 7 Beta is a finely-tuned, stable, and compatible new version of Windows. Thinking of installing it?

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Windows 7 Beta Screenshots

December 26, 2008

Over 50 screenshots of the eagerly awaited Windows 7 Beta release for your viewing pleasure...

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Shipping Seven, Part 5: From M3 to Beta

Shipping Seven
December 21, 2008

Windows 7 finally goes to the public...

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Windows 7 Build 6956 Screenshots

December 13, 2008

Another look at the most recent post-M3 build of Windows 7, build 6956. This is one of the last builds before the beta...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Aero Snaps

December 8, 2008

Aero Snaps is a touch-friendly way to manage onscreen windows...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus: Aero Peek

December 6, 2008

The new Aero Peek feature lets you look quickly at the desktop or at the...

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Windows 7 Build 69xx Screenshots

December 6, 2008

A number of post-M3 Windows 7 builds have now leaked to the public. Find out what's new...

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Windows 7: Simple vs. Easy

December 2, 2008

Windows 7 is simpler. But is it better? It seems like some of the changes are coming at the cost of ease of use...

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Windows 7 Feature Focus

November 12, 2008

It's time to learn more about the next version of Windows...

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Windows 7 M3 Interactive Install Screenshot Gallery

November 2, 2008

Here are some screenshots depicting the Windows 7 install process...

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Windows 7 Preview, Part 5, Business and IT Pro Features

November 2, 2008

Windows 7 includes major integration pieces with Windows Server, a first since...

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Windows 7 Preview, Part 4, Apps, Internet and Devices

October 30, 2008

Once you move past the user interface of the system itself, these are the things...

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Windows 7 Preview, Part 3, Explorer and Networking

October 29, 2008

Microsoft has been tweaking and generally mucking around with Windows Explorer...

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Windows 7 Preview, Part 2, Desktop Enhancements

October 28, 2008

Windows 7 is all about the surface stuff, and in that sense it's a lot more like an...

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Windows 7 Preview, Part 1

October 28, 2008

Well, let me ruin the surprise up front. Windows 7 is Windows Vista done right. If you're already a fan of Windows Vista...

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Windows 7 Milestone 3 Screenshot Galleries

October 28, 2008

Here are screenshots from the Windows 7 Milestone 3 (M3) builds...

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Here Comes Windows 7

October 23, 2008

I'll be in Los Angeles for the next week covering PDC and all of the Windows 7-related developments. Here's what...

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Windows 7: What's In A Name?

October 16, 2008

Tackling the biggest nonissue of the decade, I examine the faux uproar over Microsoft's decision to use the...

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Windows 7 FAQ: Major Update

FAQ | October 11, 2008

In a long-overdue major update to my Windows 7 FAQ, I categorize every new feature we know about heading into...

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Shipping Seven, Part 4: Pre-PDC Presentation

Shipping Seven
October 10, 2008

Paul gives his first Windows 7...

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A Look at the Windows Live Wave 3 Applications

September 30, 2008

Microsoft is removing a number of bundled applications from Windows 7 and making...

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Windows Live Wave 3 Preview

September 23, 2008

"These are rich applications that 'light up' Windows," Windows Live Senior Director of Product Management Ryan Gavin told...

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Windows 7: Too Soon?

September 22, 2008

I know what you're thinking: Most of you haven't even deployed Vista yet. Is it too soon to begin a discussion of...

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Windows Live Wave 3 Beta Screenshot Gallery

September 17, 2008

Here are some screenshots of the new Windows Live Wave 3 Beta application suite...

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Internet Explorer 8 Beta 2 Review

Reviews | August 14-27, 2008

Sometimes you get what you ask for. For years, Web developers, standards advocates, technology enthusiasts and...

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Shipping Seven, Part 3: Microsoft Speaks

Shipping Seven
August 9, 2008

Microsoft executives are blogging...

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Internet Explorer 8 Security Preview

July 2, 2008

Microsoft is talking about the new and improved security features that it will...

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Windows 7 Multi-Touch: Hi-Res Shots

May 29, 2008

Microsoft has issued a short video showing off the multi-touch functionality in...

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Shipping Seven, Part Two: April 2008

Shipping Seven
April 10, 2008

There's been a lot of silliness and...

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Windows 7 Build 6519 Screenshot Galleries

April 3-10, 2008

Four screenshot galleries depicting the first external milestone build of Windows 7...

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Internet Explorer 8 Beta 1 Review

Reviews | March 11, 2008

I didn't originally expect to write a full review for Internet Explorer (IE) 8 Beta 1, released last week at the MIX'08...

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Internet Explorer 8 Beta 1 Screenshot Gallery

March 5, 2008

A screenshot gallery of Internet Explorer 8 Beta 2...

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Shipping Seven: An Ongoing Dialog About the Next Windows, Part One: January 2008

Shipping Seven
January 26, 2008

To date, Microsoft has erected a wall of...

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Inside Windows 7 MinWin

December 20, 2007

I spoke with Microsoft Fellow Mark Russinovich about the MinWin kernel that Microsoft may or may not add to...

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Windows 7: Microsoft's New MinWin Kernel Not So New

October 30, 2007

MinWin isn't new. And if you're running Windows Vista or a pre-release version...

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--Paul Thurrott


 

New Windows 7 Content Every Week!

These series are updated with new articles every single week.

Windows 7 Feature Focus

Feature Focus

This week's Windows 7 Feature Focus: Windows Live Essentials 2011

 

Windows 7 tip of the week

Tip of the Week

This week's Windows 7 Tip of the Week: Use the Reliability Monitor to Find What's Wrong with Your PC


 
 



But Wait, There's More


Tech News | Tech Blog

I write WinInfo news stories and post to the SuperSite Blog regularly. Check out what I have to say about Windows 7 and Windows 8 on the blog!

 

Windows Weekly Audio/Video Podcast

The Windows Weekly podcast is a blast of news, information, and good humor ... tailored just for Windows 7 users!


Must-Read Seven


Windows 7 Review

The only review of Windows 7 you'll ever need to read.

 

Windows 7 Secrets

Rafael Rivera and I wrote the book about Windows 7.

Feature Focus

Discover Windows 7 ... One feature at a time.

 

Product Editions

Learn which features come in each product edition.

Clean Install Windows 7 with Upgrade Media

Yes, Virginia, you can do a clean install with Upgrade media.

 

Upgrading to Windows 7

Find out how the Windows 7 upgrade works ... from Windows XP or Vista.

Windows 7 Availability

Windows 7 is being released over time. Find out when you can get it.

 

Windows 7 Pricing

See how Windows 7 pricing compares to that of Vista.