Should I Upgrade to Windows 7?

I am asked this question nearly every other day. There is no single answer that applies to everyone. Windows 7 is a fine product, perhaps one of the better ones to have come out of Redmond in many years. While upgrading can be quite rewarding for numerous reasons, I would recommend caution be exercised, especially if you are contemplating upgrading from Windows XP. Here's why:

The majority of computers originally shipped with Windows XP simply may not have the ability to smoothly run Microsoft's latest operating system, in part because it can be difficult to find Windows 7 device drivers for certain XP machines, and in part because Windows 7 has a significantly larger memory 'footprint' than Windows XP. At minimum, you may need to upgrade your computer's memory to between 1.5 and 3 gigabytes. Consider the fact that Windows 7's resource requirements are nearly identical to those of Windows Vista, which has a reputation for consuming excess computer resources.

Consider, too, that your Web browser, the Internet, and word processor are all the same. As important as your computer's operating system might be, your computing experience is likely framed by your web browser, which many people use to access their email, in addition to viewing web pages. The web browser in Windows 7 is identical to the web browser used in Windows XP and Windows Vista. Once you're on the web, you may not notice much difference at all.

Microsoft has incrementally fixed nearly all the flaws in Windows Vista by issuing Vista Services Packs 1 and 2, which are available as free downloads from Microsoft. Once installed, these two service packs should enable you to enjoy a nearly flawless Vista experience.

Windows 7 isn't a free upgrade for most computers. If you are currently running Windows XP or an earlier release of Windows Vista, it will cost you at least $100 USD to purchase an upgrade license for Windows 7. If you choose to have a third party install it for you, that of course will cost you even more.

Having said that, most reports indicate Windows 7 is an improvement in nearly every way, and offers some appealing new features as well. Most Windows Vista machines are excellent candidates for this upgrade, especially if they are equipped with a dual-core (or better) CPU. If you are willing to purchase a Windows 7 license and upgrade your hardware as needed, you may truly enjoy the freshness and novelty of the new operating system.

Then again, you may find it more cost-effective to simply purchase a new computer with Windows 7 pre-installed, especially if your computer is more than 3 - 4 years old.

Or, you could do nothing.