Tech Tips: Windows 7

Microsoft Releases Windows 7 on October 22, and the reviews are positive! What does your nonprofit need to know about the new Windows operating system? We asked Abe Conway, TACS' Internal Technology Director, and here's what he had to say:

"There is no upgrade path from Windows XP to Windows 7; a clean install will be required. While the Vista version can be upgraded to Windows 7, according to many IT experts it's best practice to perform a clean install with this version as well.

In regards to compatibility, all of your Vista applications should work with Windows 7. Many popular Windows XP applications (such as Microsoft Office) will still be compatible, but Windows 7 does offer a Windows XP emulator just in case older XP applications aren't compatible. Bottom line: if it runs on Vista, it should run on Windows 7."

If you purchased Vista after June 26th 2009, you are eligible for a FREE upgrade to Windows 7. Contact Microsoft or your equipment vendor for more details and keep in mind that some vendors are charging $10-$30 for shipping and processing.