New Windows is Coming: Codenamed ‘Windows 7’!

Microsoft Windows XP still has a stronghold in the business community, with many companies delaying the deployment of Windows Vista. Now, Microsoft has announced the next release of Windows will be out before the end of the decade. Why so soon? Do we need it? What will be different? All good questions-let’s see what we know so far.

Call it “7”
Microsoft has now announced that its next major release of the Windows operating system will be released within the next three years. Internally, this new version of the Windows family is being called Windows 7. The move to have a new O/S out so soon is part of the plan to have releases to be time-driven with less emphasis on technology. Windows Vista, which released to businesses in November 2006 and consumers in January 2007 had a debut more than five years after the very successful Windows XP release. So many things changed between the announcement of Vista and its actual release that many of the features were gone and information during the time of development for compatibility with hardware and software standards changed many times. Even still, many businesses have yet to upgrade from the mature Windows XP product to Windows Vista, with many of them waiting for the release of Windows Vista Service Pack 1 (expected before the end of 2007) before implementation.

How many versions will “7” have?
Just like Windows Vista, Windows 7 is expected to ship in consumer and business versions, and in 32-bit and 64-bit versions. This is an acknowledgment that the availability of native 64-bit applications for the desktop is not expected anytime soon by Microsoft. Redmond, WA-based Microsoft also confirmed it may be considering a subscription model for this release of Windows, though there are no available details at this time. For those of you who follow the codenames like “Whistler” and “Longhorn,” Windows 7 was previously known by the code name of “Blackcomb” and then “Vienna.” A Microsoft representative confirmed that Windows 7 is the internal code name for the next client release of Windows.

“As part of our ongoing outreach to enterprise customers and partners, Microsoft has begun sharing plans for how they will continue to deliver value to businesses in the future…Software Assurance customers in particular," a Microsoft representative said in a statement via e-mail. Microsoft did say that the three-year time frame is a target and that the specific release of this next version of Windows will be determined by the product meeting quality standards.

Any new features projected?
As with each new release of Windows, Windows 7 is supposed to be easier to use, more secure, allow better connectivity and all at a lower cost! Networking in Windows 7 will “converge,” making the lines between local, network and Internet even grayer than they are currently. It will address problems with security being tightened and legislated along with easing collaboration. Better mobile connectivity is projected for wireless with expanded security options. By enabling seamless OS, application and data migration, and simplified PC provisioning and upgrading, it is currently planned that Windows 7 will help businesses optimize their desktop infrastructure.

How can I get more information on this subject?
As with all new and emerging technologies, we strive to stay up to date and provide you with the latest information available. If you have questions or comments about this article or if there is anything new on the subject, contact me. I would be happy to respond!
 

All product names / logos, company names / logos are copyrights of their respective holders. John Boline is an MCSE, CNE, USE and a member of the Network Professional Association. The content herein is often based on late-breaking events. Much of the material is based on information from sources that are believed to be reliable. Hagerman & Company, Inc. disclaims all warranties as to the ultimate accuracy or completeness of the information. Hagerman & Company, Inc. and its employees shall have no liability for errors, omissions or inadequacies in the information contained within this article or for any interpretations thereof. The recommendations, positions and best practice policies outlined herein represent Hagerman & Company, Inc. initial analysis and therefore are subject to change as further information which may have bearing on these positions is made available. The reader assumes sole responsibility for the selection of these materials to achieve its intended results. The opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. Entire contents © 2007 Hagerman & Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this publication in any form without prior written permission is forbidden.