The current Microsoft™ Operating Systems (OS) available on new computers is 
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with the later just released in October. Both of these Operating Systems have an appealing look and feel. Windows 7™ uses a fluid Task Bar with extra features when working with many open Windows and Programs. Although there is the common recommendation to wait until the bugs are fixed I do not adhere to it in this case for several reasons. Windows 7™ is a close cousin to Windows Vista™ so it should have a lot less issues. It is more streamlined in its services and Microsoft has unpackaged it substantially. On previous versions of Windows extras like Windows Messenger™, Outlook Express™, Netmeeting™ were all installed and ready to go. With Windows 7™ they are not automatically installed being only a click away if you want to use them. This means a more streamlined system with fewer startup Programs. And, by the way, they are being renamed and bundled as part of the Windows Live™ package. Both Windows Operating Systems are good choices and choosing at least one step up from the base Operating System Version is recommended if the budget allows as this will give enhanced features and capabilities. This brings us to the next dimension for Operating Systems of whether to buy a 32 bit or 64 bit Operating System.
In a nutshell a 64 bit Operating System will operate faster as Programs that are specifically designed for them are released and this list is rapidly expanding. A 64 bit computer architecture is quicker because instead of taking small 16 bit or 32 bit bytes (bites!) out of the apple, each computer cycle, will take a huge 64 bit bite! Larger chunks of data get processed giving better performance. [For techies read more HERE.] You are probably asking, “If I buy a 64 bit computer can I use my older software?” The quick answer is if you keep your software current and upgrade every few years you will not have a problem. Here are the details of what will work;
- 16-Bit computers were used in the 1970′s and thus the Software for this period is 16 bit. Any software written for 16-Bit computers will not run on a 64 bit machine. Except, the Windows 7™ Pro Operating System that has a method to allow these programs to work.
- 32-Bit computers were developed and in the market since the 1980′s until today. Any true 32 bit program will run on a 64 bit computer. It is highly likely that all the programs you are using if written in the late 1980′s to the present time are true 32 bit programs. That being said, it is not a guarantee so be sure and check with the Company that wrote the software. For example, Quicken™ users have recommended using only 2007 or later software for 64 bit computers.
- 64-Bit computers for the Windows Market began in the late 2003′s and Software Developers are rushing to keep up since this Software market is rapidly expanding and will the the computer standard to match in the near future.
The rest of computer buying is all about performance, options and shopping around. A computer running Windows Vista or 7 needs is recommended to have of 2 Gigabytes (GB) of RAM and 256 Megabytes (MB) of video RAM and the video card driver needs to support DirectX9.0 or higher. A multi-processor design such a Dual Core or Quad is a nice performance enhancement. The Windows Upgrade Advisor Tool is an excellent way to check both; if the current hardware can support the new Operating System and the compatibility of existing software. If running graphic intensive software and working with lots of photos & videos a hard-drive with at least 500 GB or more of memory is a almost a requirement. Or, another good option, is an external hard-drive to keep these multi-media files safe. AND, a high-performance graphics card will allow these programs to run at maximum efficiency. If choosing to use a large external memory device of 500 GB or more consider connection options beyond the USB type such as Firewire and ESATA communications to allow fast transfer speeds. Where budgets are tight the USB drives are sufficient but may require more patience for large file transfers.
To get the best deal shop the on-line specials at computer stores and on-line computer sales web-sites. Check out the computer manufacturer web-sites and consider a certified refurbished computer. Price comparison web-sites are a good research tool to check both prices and features. And, as always when using the Internet it is important to stay safe and the end of this article explains how to use the Mozilla Firefox™ Internet Browser with a safety Add-on.
