Is Windows 7 any Good?

Absolutely! As a Microsoft Reseller & Partner we have been running Windows 7 for about six months.  Its stable, very fast and has some nice improvements.  Basically, its Vista stripped down, faster, much more reliable and working great.

Who Should Upgrade?

1. Anyone buying a new system should get a Windows 7 system unless you have specific software you know only works on XP.

2. Anyone with a decent system less than 2 years old that needs to be reformatted for one reason or another, this is the time to upgrade it.

Who Should NOT Upgrade?

1. Anyone with a computer that is working fine. Don't mess with something that works!

2. Anyone who does not want to have to reformat their computer.  Upgrading on top of Vista is not as good as a clean install. We always recommend a clean install.

3. Anyone with an older computer. Today you can get a new fast system for $400-$500. Why spend $200+ just for Windows? 
Don't upgrade, Replace it!

Which Version of Windows 7 do I Need?

For most people Windows 7 Home Premium is the best choice.

The "Home" and "Starter" editions of Windows 7 are missing little but important things like Aero Glass, the nicer looking interface; Live Taskbar Previews; Games; Snipping Screen Capture Tool; does not support multi processors and a few other things.

The "Professional" and "Ultimate" Editions have some nice extras but things most people will never use: Network Backup, Bitlocker Encryption (Ultimate Only), Joining corporate domain networks; etc.

If this is for a business that has a Domain Server configuration then you will need at least the Business Version.

Should I get a 32 or 64 bit version?

What's the difference you ask? All computers today are 64 bit (except low end netbooks).  The "bits" is essentially how the computer communicated internally, the more bits, the more power and speed.

64 Bits is the future and actually its here now.  You should get the 64 bit version of windows.  Some older programs may not run and that's the only drawback.  While not every program you use will take advantage of it, most software works just fine even if they are 32 bit and don't take advantage of it.

Basically, if your doing what most people do: Internet, Word, Email, etc., then 64bit will work and you will be fine. If you know you have some older DOS software or programs that you must still use, then you might have problems on 64bit Windows.

Want to see all the details and compare versions? Check out Paul Thurrott's comparison chart on the Super Site for Windows