Which Windows to install on a laptop. Which Windows is better to install on your computer?
It has several dozen operating systems, among which several are actively used today. Therefore, a novice user may want to know: what version and Windows is better and which one to choose and install?
It’s difficult to answer, since any Windows (XP up to 10) has its pros and cons. We will try to analyze as objectively as possible different versions, understand which Windows is best for your computer.
How can I find out which Windows I have? Enter “system information” in the search, click on the link that appears, and look at the information in the window that opens. So, we sorted out the question of what OS I have. All that remains is to figure out which Windows to choose.
"Seven" quickly eclipsed XP. And for good reason, because today it is the most popular OS. It finally has everything that previous OSes lacked: automatic updates drivers, decent built-in antivirus, good compatibility with wireless networks, which had already begun to actively spread in 2009 - the year of release, beautiful appearance, as well as much more.
It is perfect for both work and entertainment; for many, it may be an ideal option. All that remains is to choose the version.
Starter
The initial version, which has a lot of shortcomings compared to the others:
- it exists only in 32-bit format;
- there is no ability to play or create DVDs, which is also very inconvenient;
- lacks Aero effects - the main graphic feature of the seven
For weak netbooks and old computers it will be a great success, as it will work flawlessly. But it doesn’t make much sense, since XP offers much more features, it’s unlikely that anyone will want to install it.
Home
There are two versions of Home: Home Basic and Home premium. The capabilities of the first version are hardly different from Starter, but the Premium version offers much greater opportunities. With it you can experience all the delights of Windows 7: graphic effects Aero, support for tablet PCs, quad-core processors and much more.
Professional
The professional version has even more expanded potential, allows you to work with a remote desktop, print over a network, work with applications for XP, or rather, has good compatibility with them, which cannot be said about previous versions.
Windows 7 Ultimate provides all the features of this OS. In addition to the functions described above, it has:
- BitLocker data protection feature;
- support for Unix applications;
Plus a number of functions that will be more useful to a professional than to an ordinary user.
The Home Premium and Professional versions are perfect for solving basic tasks. If you currently have “Seven”, then you can find out the version using the method described above.
Windows 8 and 8.1
Eight is easy to recognize by its tiled interface, which is strikingly different from the traditional Windows one. The “Start” button has been removed, replaced by “Active Corner”, which opens a screen with icons various applications different sizes.
This system is ideally suited for tablet PCs and laptops and netbooks with touch screens, however, the computer performance here will require greater than for working without brakes of the same “Seven”. However, Windows 10 is also supported on many platforms. In Windows 8, Microsoft took the path of multiplatform, and this is both a plus and a minus at the same time.
The Metro interface is extremely convenient to use for owners of touch screens, but those accustomed to standard controls will find it a little awkward, at least at first. Internet addiction for optimal performance ensures timely updating of everything: applications, news, feeds - new costs in the case of some Internet tariffs. The application store, made on the same principle as other systems, makes it easier to use official programs, but makes it difficult to use unlicensed software that people like to download on Windows.
And finally, the newest, the best, which will finally remove all doubts for many. came out in 2015 and quickly began to conquer the market. This platform absorbed the best features of the “Seven” and “Eight” and ultimately produced a certain synthesis. The developers took into account many of the shortcomings of previous systems and did something that would meet the wishes of the majority of users.
Visualization
A compromise worthy of applause. The Start menu has returned, but now its size and contents are determined independently. You can decide for yourself whether you need a bunch of icons or should limit yourself to the standard view. Visual design became even more beautiful than on 7, but uses some Windows features 8.
Platforms
Can be used on large quantities devices: tablets, smartphones, laptops, netbooks, desktop PCs. This allows you to synchronize data across multiple devices at once. There are already models of tablets and smartphones that allow you to effectively use this OS.
Functionality
Windows 10 is great for games that run much better on it than on previous systems. Working on Windows 10 is also much more convenient, since it is the newest, all programs work perfectly with it.
The best Windows for a laptop is the one that comes pre-installed by the manufacturer. Firstly, you don’t need to waste time preparing and installing Windows, and secondly, you get a licensed operating system.
The disadvantage of this choice is the minimum version of the operating system, such as Start or Home Edition that are not suitable for full-fledged work (some accounting programs, banking programs or special programs), and are only suitable for using a laptop as multimedia device(Internet, music, cinema, games).
To work on a laptop you will have to download Windows Professional or Ultimate with or buy. Windows for a laptop is no different from a regular operating system Windows systems For personal computer, i.e. it's the same Windows.
With the release of a new operating system at the end of 2012 Windows family, namely Windows 8, the choice of computer software has expanded even further. The new operating system provides much more user capabilities compared to previous releases, but for laptop owners main question remained without proper attention: is it worth installing Windows 8 when I have Windows 7 - will I get the same from the new operating system stable work and the same high performance with relatively low power consumption? This article provides detailed comparison Windows 8 with Windows 7, description of the main ones Windows innovations 8 and an analysis of its performance in relation to Windows 7 in applications and games.
First, let's look at what innovations Windows 8 offers us. The most obvious of them is the updated interface, known as Metro UI, the main feature of which is the start screen, which has completely replaced the Start menu. Applications pinned to the start screen are made in the form of tiles; information on them changes in real time, and they themselves can change size. It turned out to be a kind of logical development of the theme of gadgets from Windows Vista, but in favor of the interface from Zune.
Another innovation in Windows 8 is active angles screen. When you move the mouse cursor close to the right edge of the display, a small menu of actions appears on the right (search, grant access, parameters, etc.), moving the cursor close to the left edge will provide the ability to switch between applications (like “Win+Tab” in Windows 7). Applications are divided into two groups: classic, running on the familiar Desktop, and Metro applications, which fully interact with the interface features and Windows capabilities 8.
In the classic interface, among the changes, we should highlight the abandonment of transparency and rounding of window corners, as well as the ability to dynamically change the color of workspace elements according to the Desktop wallpaper. The Metro interface is deeply integrated with Microsoft SkyDrive ( cloud service file storage), which allows you to synchronize user data (images, music, movies, documents, etc.) between various devices and share them with friends. Metro applications (both paid and free) are collected, as they say, in one place - the Microsoft Store, which, in addition to downloading and installation, provides functionality for updating installed applications and sending feedback.
Now, after describing the innovations of Windows 8, we move on to, in fact, analyzing the performance of the “seven” and “eight”. In addition to performance tests, we will measure the startup speed of the system and programs.
To obtain accurate results, all measurements must be made on the same laptop with the same versions of drivers, programs and the same settings. In our case it is Asus N61Vn. We use 64-bit versions of Windows 7 SP1 Professional and Windows 8 Pro (Russian-language) with all updates available at the time of testing. There are no antiviruses, firewalls or other programs that can affect test results in the system; all settings are set to default.
To measure performance in games, it is convenient to use packages from the 3DMark series. 3DMark Vantage is the most advanced and full remedy for testing gaming performance.
The situation indicates very little Windows advantage 7 over the opponent, except for the video card test. The results are so indistinguishable that such an advantage of Windows 7 can even be attributed to insufficient optimization of 3DMark Vantage for the new Windows 8.
For a more complete picture, consider the results of Heaven Benchmark 3.0.
Here Windows 8 has already shown a little better performance, but again, the gap is minimal.
As a conclusion, it should be stated that the gaming performance of operating systems is at the same level. Therefore, when choosing a gaming laptop, there are no special differences between Windows 8 and Windows 7.
To measure operating speed regular programs convenient to use software Futuremark Peacekeeper and SunSpider series.
The Futuremark Peacekeeper test allows you to measure the performance of an Internet browser, in in this case Opera 11.64.
Windows 7 wasn't much faster, and the difference isn't big enough to claim an advantage.
SunSpider is a speed test for executing Java scripts in browsers.
Again, Windows 7 does a better job, completing this test in less time.
7-Zip is very popular free archiver, which has built-in testing functionality.
Both Windows 8 and Windows 7 showed approximately the same level.
Speed Windows start. In that Windows test 8 shows itself to be head and shoulders above, and the shutdown time of the new operating system is also shorter.
As a result, we can say that the launch time of programs is almost the same. This is due to the fact that first of all it is affected by the speed of the hard drive, then the level of the rest hardware, and then the operating system. But the reduction in loading time of the new operating system compared to its predecessor is frankly pleasing.
In conclusion, it should be summarized: Windows 7 and Windows 8 are at the same level in terms of performance; installing Windows 8 to improve system performance in games or applications will not have any effect; if system boot time is important, then Windows 8 is more suitable; in the presence of touch display V Windows laptop 8 is a better choice.
Probably many have encountered, at least once faced with the choice of an operating system for your desktop computer or laptop. In this article we will try to decide on the choice of operating system, let’s remember a little history to begin with.
Before emergence of Windows Vista was no such choice. On laptops and computers, Windows XP was mainly used. Before this, Windows 98 SE was quite popular. Windows ME failed completely and did not find wide popularity among users. Here came Windows Vista, which was formerly known as Longhorn.
Many had high hopes for Windows Vista; it was installed on all new laptops and computers, so to speak, by force. Windows Vista is a completely redesigned Windows XP, which could not be called a variation on the Windows XP theme. The first versions of Windows Vista were full of bugs. It was simply impossible to use it. Most of these bugs were fixed in Service Pack 1 and Service Pack 2, but Windows Vista's image was damaged. It just didn't sell. Therefore, Microsoft decided to create a new operating system with a new name, which was essentially a well-developed and optimized Windows Vista. This is how Windows 7 was born.
Now let's compare Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7.
Methodology for comparing Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7
Before moving directly to the results of the study, it is worth saying a few words about the principles and methodology of this comparison.
IN this study The main focus is on comparing the performance of different versions of Windows.
Comparison of power consumption and time battery life was intentionally omitted due to large measurement error. It is very difficult to create approximately equal conditions for all operating systems. In practice, when correct setting It turns out to be about the same battery life. It's worth noting here that Windows Vista can manage power more flexibly than Windows XP. This eliminates the difference in battery life due to Windows Vista's greater consumption of system resources. In Windows 7, Microsoft has made power management even more flexible.
Comparisons between on and off times were also missed. As in the previous case, the measurement error is large. You can, of course, measure something there and draw thoughtful conclusions, although the real measurement error will be several times higher due to the difference in on/off time between different versions Windows. The practical value of such information is low. The laptop doesn't turn on and off that often.
The last point that was missed is the user-friendliness of the interface. Since convenience is a very subjective criterion, it is not very correct to compare it. Here you already need to decide for yourself whether it is convenient or not to use this or that operating system. Windows XP and Windows Vista are quite similar in terms of interface, but in Windows 7 it has been significantly redesigned. Some things have become much more convenient.
Comparison was carried out on Asus laptop N61Vn with processor Intel Core 2 Quad Q9000, 4 GB RAM and with video card nVidia GeForce GT240M. The original 32-bit versions of Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 3, Windows Vista Ultimate Service Pack 2 and Windows 7 Ultimate with the latest updates were used.
Now you can proceed directly to the testing itself.
Performance comparison between Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7
To evaluate gaming performance, we used 3DMark03 3.60, 3DMark05 1.30 and 3DMark06 1.10 utilities from Futuremark, as well as the AquaMark 3 test, which is based on the Aquanox 2 game. They allow you to fairly objectively evaluate the performance of both the video card and the processor with memory. In all cases, the default settings were used. The resolution was set to 1024x768 pixels. To increase accuracy, each test was repeated 3 times, and the result was averaged.
Futuremark 3DMark03
In this test, Windows XP leads by a fairly large margin. Then, with a slight difference, come Windows 7 and Windows Vista.
Futuremark 3DMark05
In this test, Windows XP still leads by a wide margin, but Windows 7 and Windows Vista showed almost the same result.
Futuremark 3DMark06
Overall result:
SM2.0 subtest result:
SM3.0 subtest result:
CPU subtest result:
In general, the situation is still the same. Windows XP leads by a fairly large margin. Windows Vista and Windows 7 show approximately the same results. Due to improvements and optimizations, the result of Windows 7 is slightly higher than that of Windows Vista.
AquaMark 3
In this test the situation is similar to 3DMark06. Windows XP leads by a wide margin, Windows Vista and Windows 7 are approximately on the same level.
Now let's look at performance on normal tasks. For this, HD Benchmark 3.0.5 is used, which allows you to evaluate performance when encoding 720p video, as well as PCMark05 and PCMark Vantage from the same Futuremark.
HD Benchmark
First pass, fps:
Second pass, fps:
PCMark05
Overall result:
CPU performance:
Graphics Performance:
In general, the situation resembles the previous ones. Only here in hard test Windows disk 7 took the lead due to a better optimized disk write caching algorithm. In the test Windows graphics Vista turned out to be faster than Windows 7.
PCMark Vantage
Since this program requires DirectX 10, which is not supported on Windows XP, results will only be presented for Windows Vista and Windows 7.
Overall result:
Memory performance:
TV and Movie Playback Performance:
Gaming Performance:
Music Playback Performance:
Communication performance:
Office application performance:
Hard drive performance:
Overall the results are almost the same. Windows 7 showed a little top scores than Windows Vista.
conclusions
Based on the information obtained, the following conclusions can be drawn:
- On this moment Windows XP runs faster than Windows Vista and Windows 7;
- Windows 7 shows comparable performance to Windows Vista. Subjectively Windows interface 7 is faster than Windows Vista. If this is important to you, then it makes sense to upgrade to Windows 7;
- If you don't need DirectX 10 support, there's no point in upgrading to Windows Vista or Windows 7;
- As Windows alternatives XP Mode in Windows 7 you can use VirtualBox.
As you can see, the software is bloated, the demands on system resources are growing, and meanwhile performance is declining. Demand on system resources increases energy consumption, and energy consumption accordingly increases the release of heat into the atmosphere, which can lead to global warming, and therefore reduces the time we spend on planet Earth!
Windows XP today is the most complete, stable and productive, and therefore for the universal salvation of humanity we need to use Windows no higher than 2000 or XP, or even switch to Unix/Linux, otherwise, if we do not give up using Windows such as Vista, 7 and similar system resource hoggers, we have every chance of disappearing from the face of the Earth forever!
It is also known that a new version of the operating system, Windows 8, is being prepared for release. In which, most likely, the demands on system resources will increase even more compared to its predecessors...
Since the release of the tenth version of Windows, there has been ongoing debate among users and experts about which is better, Windows 7 or 10? Some consider the “seven” the most reliable of all released versions, others note the multitasking of the “ten” and its many non-standard capabilities, which are not in the seventh version. Let's try to consider all the main aspects associated with this, but this comparison will be purely conditional, since each user has his own opinion.
Which is better Windows: 7 or 10? First look at the interface
To begin with, let's pay attention to graphical shell. In the seventh version, although there is a semi-transparent Aero theme, which is installed by default, we still have a standard interface that was used in all previously created systems. And many people are already quite tired of him.
“Ten” in some ways repeats the eighth modification with its tiles in the spirit of Metro, but the appearance of the “Start” button with expanded capabilities quick access It is superior to both Windows 7 and Windows 8 in some important system elements. Special attention You should pay attention to the function of creating multiple desktops. Some users consider this a waste of time, but fans of multitasking will only welcome this approach.
The interface itself, with its flat elements, looks quite controversial, although such a simplification, firstly, does not affect the consumption of system resources too much, and secondly, it does not have such a strong impact on the eyes. The fatigue from constantly looking at the screen is much less than in the “seven”, where the gaze is focused on three-dimensional elements. A definite plus.
System Test Kit
If you look at system requirements Both systems are obviously not very different. Let's try to compare Windows 7 and 10 64 bits on a configuration with a 2-core Intel processor Core with clock frequency 2.33 Hz and 3 GB RAM. This configuration is acceptable for both the “seven” and the “ten” at a level above the minimum.
Download speed
So, the first thing you should pay attention to is the loading speed before the main screen with the “Desktop” appears. On the above configuration for Windows 7 the time was 95.7 seconds, for Windows 10 - 93.6 seconds. But these indicators are very conditional. Although it seems that the “ten” loads faster, in fact, even when the “Desktop” appears, some problems continue in it. system processes(this is indicated by a constantly flashing light indicator on system unit or laptop, which indicates access to the hard drive). At the same time, the “seven” seems to stop.
What to prefer in this case: Windows 10 or 7? Reviews from users of both systems indicate that people did not notice much of a difference in the start time. According to many, even a minute difference does not affect their preferences. But the use of computer or laptop resources in the tenth version, as it turns out, is somewhat higher, so Windows 7 is on the same minimal configuration works faster.
Access to settings, options and the Control Panel
Now a few words about the settings of the main parameters. Both systems have a standard “Control Panel”, however, access to it in the standard version varies quite a lot.
The “seven” uses the main “Start” menu, the “ten” uses the right click on the start button. But in both cases you can still use the standard control command, entered into the Run menu.
But here is the most interesting moment. There is not one, but two “Control Panels”. In addition to the standard one, there is also a special section called “Settings”, in which you can access not only the main settings, but also some elements that are standard panel are missing. So here, in the question of which is better Windows (7 or 10), the scales clearly tip in favor of the tenth modification.
And if you look at Windows 10 more closely, you will notice that it has a more advanced system for finding the right component or setting, unlike standard means Windows 7. As already mentioned, the right-click menu on the Start button helps a lot. But that is not all. For example, in search query There are three standard categories you can use, highlighted in the vertical column on the left. But with all this, you just need to start typing in the desired name of the control element, file or program, and the system will immediately offer several options for the result. Here the seventh version is not worth competing with the “ten”.
Windows 10 and 7
But with safe mode the situation is much worse.
If in Windows 7 you only need to press the F8 key when loading, in the “ten” access to it is so veiled that the average user is unlikely to figure out how to call it.
No, of course, you can configure the “ten” so that it is safe Windows mode 10 was activated by pressing the F8 key, as in the “seven,” but it is impossible to do this without special knowledge and a hierarchical arrangement of controls or setting the corresponding parameters. Here the “ten” clearly loses.
Antivirus programs
If you look at the security features, any antivirus for Windows 7 installs without problems. At the stage when the tenth modification appeared only in the Technical Preview version, many conflicts could be observed, and most programs simply did not want to be installed.
Again, this situation was observed only at the testing stage of the first release, and only because antivirus software developers did not have time to release the corresponding packages for Windows 10. But for the most part this concerned free applications. A little later, programs designed to work in the Windows 10 environment did appear, and now antivirus for Windows 7 and similar software for installation and operation do not work.
Working on the Internet
Another aspect of comparing systems is related to testing built-in tools for working on the Internet. In Windows 7, the default is the same Internet Explorer, which at that time, although it was somewhat updated, still caused (and still causes) complaints from users due to the inconvenience of operation and many bugs.
In Windows 10 the situation is different. It also has a standard Explorer, but as the main means of accessing the Internet, a completely new concept browser called Microsoft Edge. But that’s what he’s currently occupying top lines comparative browser ratings, demonstrating the highest performance indicators in terms of ease of use, speed, and reliability. Alas, it is not possible to install it in the “seven”, so you will have to use annoying IE or install a third-party browser.
Comparison of systems
Of course, these are not all the parameters by which both systems can be tested, and therefore it is possible to unequivocally answer the question of which is better, Windows 7 or 10, very conditionally. If we talk about performance, they are practically the same. If you look at the controls and options for accessing them, Windows 10 has more of them, but they can be hard to find. But if you gain access to them, you can produce more fine tuning systems.
Options safe mode give an advantage to Windows 7 due to the use standard method activation.
In terms of functioning search engine The “ten” has a clear advantage, as well as in the field of Internet access.
Well, as for the interface, it’s impossible to say for sure which is better. Some people like the standard shell, others like the new one with expanded capabilities. But the fact that in terms of multitasking the “ten” is a cut above is not even discussed.
What to choose?
Of course, there are advantages and disadvantages to Windows 10. What system has no flaws? In the "seven", although she remains almost the most popular system, all this is also available. And all those who claim that the “ten” is unfinished are absolutely wrong. Only the first modification was crude, and modified versions like Home, Professional and even a special assembly for educational institutions Education, according to most experts, will simply put the “seven” in its belt with its functionality, although, unlike it, they consume more computer resources.
In general, it is better to give preference to Windows 10. It is not yet known how long updates or programs for the “seven” will be released. In the end, the time will come, and they will refuse it anyway. But the tenth version will develop at the fastest pace; it may even become a platform for the next modification. And if you take into account the fact that the “ten” is installed on mobile platforms, there is nothing to say.
First, let's figure out why this is needed at all? For example, you buy a laptop or PC without an operating system (you decided to save money, and rightly so) or with an installed Linux distribution(the same thing, we saved money because it’s free, but it’s often unusual to the average user).
And here you are faced with the question - which version to install?
Of course, maybe the first question will be “Who should I contact for installation,” but this is already in a different category.
I offer 3 versions of operating systems of the Windows family to choose from - Windows XP, Windows 7 and Windows 8.
On the one hand, the most simple solution this question will pose the most latest version currently released is Windows 8. Moreover, Microsoft has a tendency to remove glitches and errors with each version release previous versions, and after that work on new errors. Such is their nature - mistakes and corrections. But I would not rush with such a choice, because what is new does not always mean better. So let's look at these OS and draw a conclusion on which one to stop.
1)
Benefits and Windows disadvantages XP
Advantages.
Who is this version intended for and what is good about it? I think the answer is obvious, even based on the fact that for nine years from 2003 to 2011 this system was in the most popular demand. Ask "Why?" yes, because people are accustomed to the fact that many of their acquaintances and friends have this particular version, that they speak positively about it, and that it is easy to use. Everything is extremely clear and precise and you don’t often need to resort to the help of friends and acquaintances to explain how to do something.
Also, during this time, it has “overgrown” with a sufficient number of updates and additions (there are also assemblies in which everything is available at once), which allows you to install it and immediately start using it without the need to get used to it and look for something new.
From technical advantages one cannot fail to note the fact that it is suitable for old computers. Under old I also mean that they have weak hardware and filling. It requires significantly less random access memory for work.
Flaws.
The most important shortcomings are related to the hardware and other disappointing moments follow from this. For example, it “does not see” RAM more than 4 GB (if you use 4 GB or more, the system can only use 3.25 GB) and supports a maximum of DirectX 9. This is logical, at the time when it was released there was no such thing that a computer could support 8 GB of RAM, but DirectX has the specifics of constantly increasing to meet the requirements. Therefore, if you want to play or work with modern graphic editors or games, then most likely you will not be able to do this.
Another disadvantage is the fact that this OS is being shut down and no more updates will be released.
2)
Advantages and disadvantages of Windows 7
Advantages.
8 years after the release of Windows XP, this version was released. Although there was an “interim” unstable version of Windows Vista, it did not receive proper distribution and I would rather classify it as a beta version before the release of Windows Vista.
I think the biggest advantage will be its Aero interface. In fact, the seven is much more beautiful and convenient than XP. There is only a small nuance - the higher your version of Windows 7, the more features you will get (I mean Home Basic, Advanced, Enterprise, Professional and Ultimate editions). In general, I love everything that is functional (you never know, it will come in handy someday), so I have Maximum on my PC, and Basic on my laptop (I only use it when I travel anyway).
Another advantage is that in Windows 7 there is a little-noticed service called UAC ( User Account control). This is the same window that pops up when you are working with particularly important utilities (files) and asks permission to change. This is a kind of “fool protection” i.e. when such a message appears, you may still think, “Should I do this? What if it damages the computer,” and you can give up the sin. It’s good if this message comes out when you perform your actions, but what if it just comes out like that? Here it’s worth thinking about viruses, hackers and the like and checking your antivirus. But an antivirus is still required, because nowadays all sorts of “bad” people have learned to do things in such a way that they can bypass this service’s protection.
Another advantage can be noted that Windows 7 copes well with wireless networks, namely Wi Fi. Which is natural, because at the time of the release of Windows XP this was still not widespread. It already has all the drivers built in to support this function (especially if you have a candy bar, laptop or netbook), but for a PC you can also put a bracket in the port and your computer will be able to use Wi-Fi as you wish.
And finally, I can’t help but note that Windows 7 already comes with built-in options that are most suitable for your computer. And after you have installed it, all you have to do is install a couple of drivers that usually come with your computer, camera, phone, etc. devices. Well, or use a program to search for uninstalled drivers, find and update them.
Flaws.
Honestly, over the years of working with Windows 7 I have not yet found any more or less important shortcomings. Except that some old games and programs do not run on it. Of course, it provides for this and it is possible to run it in compatibility mode with older versions of Windows, but no matter how hard I tried to launch it sometimes, nothing worked.
Recommended system requirements for Windows 7:
Processor - 1 GHz
RAM - 1 GB for 32-bit version and 2 GB for 64-bit version
Video card with DirectX9 support
16 GB free space on the hard drive for the 32-bit version and 20 GB for the 64-bit version.
3)
Advantages and disadvantages of Windows 8
Advantages.
Metro style. Oh, this vaunted metro style.... But nevertheless, this is an advantage. At first, it’s really uncomfortable, but after some time you get used to it and begin to understand all the charm of this interface which replaced Aero from Windows 7.
Multiplatform. This OS was released not so long ago, namely 3 months ago. On October 26, 2012 it was published official release. Therefore, it is focused on the more frequent needs of users, in particular, it can be installed not only on a PC, laptop or netbook, but also on all-in-one computers and tablets. This is achieved by the fact that it provides touch input data (this is why the metro style was invented - these squares and rectangles).
Download speed. I took this from the Microsoft website, but I considered it an advantage because it only takes a fraction of a second faster loading clean Windows 7 (tested by experience) and you don’t have to be fooled by the company’s videos.
Built-in antivirus. This version comes with a built-in antivirus from Microsoft itself. Basically good and free antivirus. I use it myself and recommend it to others.
More close connection with the Internet, i.e. Internet is almost always needed there. If in the case of Windows 7 or Windows XP it was possible to disable programs or connect to the Internet, but not be on it, then here, as soon as the Internet appears, the system will immediately start downloading and updating something. This may be a disadvantage (especially for those who use 3g USB modems), but I think that this is more of an advantage because you are always aware of all events (especially if information gadgets are installed) and the system is constantly updated.
Flaws.
In my opinion, it is still quite “raw” and still needs work. After all, as usually happens after the release new version The search for its vulnerabilities, glitches, and errors immediately begins, and various kinds of hackers are especially trying to fix this. Considering the fact that it is closely connected to the Internet, your data will be almost immediately available to attackers. Sometimes even an antivirus won't save you.
It cannot install programs from other sites. Those. It used to be easier - you found the right program on the Internet, downloaded the archive or exe file, launched it, installed it and used it. Here we decided to make it safer and do it a little differently - now you need to search for and download utilities through the built-in Windows Store - windows store. Analogous to the AppStore for iPhones and Google Market in androids. Personally, I think this is a disadvantage rather than an advantage, although...
Recommended system requirements for Windows 8:
Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or higher with PAE, NX and SSE2 support (more details)
RAM: 1 gigabyte (GB) for 32-bit or 2 GB for 64-bit.
Available hard drive space: 16 gigabytes (GB) for 32-bit or 20 GB for 64-bit.
Graphics adapter: graphics device Microsoft DirectX 9 with WDDM driver.
That's basically all about comparisons. Now let’s figure out what to choose and install.
Although now software manufacturers and games are releasing their products with support for all these versions, they are increasingly abandoning Windows XP (because it doesn’t have enough resources) and do not include Windows 8 (they haven’t had time to “combine” it yet).
Based on my experience, I would recommend choosing Windows 7 and preferably Ultimate. Simply because I use it myself and don’t see the point in switching to the same 8K. In general, I think that 8ka is like a “prelude” to another operating system, as was the case with windows vista before windows output seven. It’s just that Microsoft is in a hurry and churns out systems, releasing systems first, and is reluctant to fix errors (this is my personal opinion).
7ka is currently the most stable and popular windows version. Yes, and laptops, computers, netbooks are now being produced since preinstalled windows 7 (although they have already begun to implement Windows 8). And the current computer hardware allows you to install Windows 7. It even works on netbooks special windows 7 editions Starter (initial).
I would recommend installing Windows XP to those who have been familiar with it since the bearded 2000s, if they have an old computer or a new one, but the hardware does not allow installing even Windosw Starter.
Well, with Windows installation 8 I would still recommend sticking with at least the code until it is more or less polished and corrected.
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