Windows 7 Family Pack
By Patrick
Nelson
Microsoft has come along way from offering just a few
versions of its operating system.
It wasn’t so long ago that you could get a home version of a
Windows operating system and a few business oriented Windows
versions.
But, a bit like Ford, who decided offering the Model-T in
any color as long as it was black, was restricting sales,
Microsoft now have multiple versions of its operating system
geared towards businesses and home users—and also multiple
deals, including deals for enterprise and for families.
The Windows 7 Family Pack is a deal which allows you to
upgrade three eligible PCs.
There are some advantages to moving a whole household over
to Windows 7—mainly related to the home network setup and
music, media, file and printer sharing.
Windows 7 in the home environment introduces a change of
direction for sharing from Microsoft.
Whereas in earlier versions of Windows, the default was to
restrict sharing of files on a network, in this version the
default is to allow open sharing of files such as media
files.
The thinking behind this—called HomeGroup--is that security
in the home is really all about securing the perimeter, the
front and back door—and the windows.
An individual within the home can always lock a room, a
closet, or a drawer—but it’s a choice. Well, it’s now the
same with Windows 7.
The home network supposedly is fastened tight and the
computers within the home can intermingle freely—with the
option of locking them.
The Windows 7 Family Pack includes just one packaged copy of
Windows 7 Home Premium—but you can install it on up to three
PCs. There are both 32-bit and 64-bit discs included.
Microsoft have pitched it at $149.99 as an estimated retail
price, but prices may vary. Microsoft is saying this is a
limited time offer and that quantities may run out. Upgrades
may be made from Windows XP or Windows Vista.
Earlier versions of Windows are not upgradeable.
As we all know from nightmarish experience, any operating
system upgrade can open a can of worms, so you should check
your computer’s compatibility.
Run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor (click here
to get it.)
Also check out the Windows 7 Compatibility Center for more
information, including seeing if other gear attached to your
computer will work.
Click here
to see it.
