So you may be wondering why a web designer is reviewing Windows 7 rather than talking about something related to the internet. Well, I decided that the release of the Windows 7 Operating System (OS) was of such importance that I just had to take a closer look at it and see if the operating system lived up to all the hype surrounding it.

So what is all the buzz about?

Since the release of Windows Vista, Microsoft has been trying to debug the problems associated with Vista. Many complained of compatibility problems with programs and hardware, file saving dilemmas, and a lot of general troubleshooting. Most offices even opted out of upgrading to Vista from Windows XP because of these reasons. But now with the release of Windows 7 there seems to be a "new light" which is supposed to solve all the problems that Vista created. I've even heard the phrase "hasta la Vista baby," declared by some IT professionals and web designers, including me.

Now if history has taught us anything, it's what may seem great in the beginning only causes headaches later on. Will this time be any different? My trusty Magic 8 Ball, (you know, that toy we all wanted as kids to predict the future simply by shaking it) says, "All Signs Point To Yes."

The main objective of Windows 7 is to start fresh, especially if you are transitioning from any OS earlier than Vista. So if you have Windows 95, 98, Me, 2000, or XP you will have to remove the old operating system from your hard drive before installing Windows 7. Don't forget the old rule thumb of backing up all the files you wish to transfer to the new operating system before beginning to upgrade to Windows 7.

What are all the new bells and whistles?

• Touch screen capabilities on compatible computer screens.
• Improved desktop navigation.
• Internet Explorer 8
• Easy network creation or HomeGroup.
• Windows Media Player 12
• 32 and 64-bit versions.
• Multi-tasking feature among programs.
• Parental controls.
• Faster boot-up, sleep and resume modes.
• Navigate open windows more quickly.
• Jump Lists feature to allow easy access to common files or folders.
• Full system backup and restore features.
• BitLocker data encryption for added protection of personal files.

Is it worth it to upgrade my computer to Windows 7?

After reading all the information I could find on Windows 7 and even testing a computer with Windows 7 Home Premium installed on it, I have come to one conclusion. It's time to upgrade to Windows 7, but beware if using an old outdated computer. Windows 7 does require sufficient hardware to support the upgrade on a computer which is illustrated in the table below.

For many people, this means it will be time to either buy a new computer or rebuild their computer by adding more powerful hardware. However, if the computer is already running Windows Vista then it should be able to make the transition easily without upgrading any hardware. I should note that it is possible to upgrade computers with less memory, but the system will take a long time to load and appearance and performance enhancements may not work correctly.

What problems have arose so far?

The overall benefits of upgrading to Windows 7 vastly outweigh the problems associated with Windows 7. Problems have risen from upgrades from Windows Vista, but don't let these small problems deter you from making the switch to Windows 7.

The problems listed below come from a small percentage of complaints which Microsoft is diligently trying to correct. There are always bugs in programs when they are first released, but over time they are corrected.

Overall Grade.

The overall outlook on Windows 7 is definitely a positive one. Though there are some bugs still being worked out, they are nothing that can't be fixed with some simple updates over time. If you are still unsure about upgrading to Windows 7, my personal recommendation is to find a friend or colleague who has WIndows 7 installed on a computer and give it a try yourself. You may be pleasantly surprised.