2009 is the year for Microsoft’s launch of the successor to Windows Vista: Windows 7. The first beta release is meanwhile available and has been well received. Being a Microsoft Gold Partner, BRAIN FORCE will report on their experience with the new operating system. At BRAIN FORCE Netherlands, more than 30% of the engineers are already using this new system. Customers may also like to get to know Windows 7 at this early stage. Tom de Ridder, Development Manager of BRAIN FORCE Netherlands answers the most important questions.
What new functionality does Windows 7 offer?
“Part of Windows 7’s fascinating new functionality is Direct Access,” Tom describes. “This is made available in conjunction with Windows Server 2008, providing convenient access to applications through the internet. While mobile employees used to access the company network from home through an (expensive) VPN connection, Direct Access now provides a smart means to get connected. Corporate applications are now available over the internet, which makes them easier to implement than VPN and which is also more secure. Another interesting element that comes with Windows 7 is Branch Cache. This is intended to reduce the load of WAN connections in substations through local buffering of search requests on central servers. What is more, this feature allows substations to be less sensitive to short-term interruptions of the connection with head office."
Do all applications run under Windows 7?
“Personally I haven’t experienced any problems yet, though it is still too early to know all the details. One of my colleagues who is involved with application compatibility testing recently told me that most applications worked in one of his screenings. This is mainly due to Windows 7 using the same driver model as Windows Vista. Furthermore, the basic architecture of Windows 7 has not been changed, so that applications “end up” on the same platform as with Windows Vista. This is great news.”
What improvements does Windows 7 bring?
“Users are most likely to notice the modified user interface of Windows 7. It is greatly enhanced and allows higher productivity. For instance, not all open windows appear in the task bar, but they are shown as icons. This is clearer and helps retrieve information. Also, the search function has been considerably improved. What is more, several features which users of Vista found irritating or “know it all” have been changed, such as the endless security information. Windows 7 provides various warning levels which can be selected by the system administrator.”
For more information on Windows 7 please click here.