For average users who only use their computers for editing documents, managing spreadsheets and casual web surfing, Windows 7 may give them a mediocre improvement in the way of productivity, however for IT professionals; the OS is a huge leap forward in terms of features, performance and stability.
1 - Better application compatibility: The Windows Vista OS introduced architectural improvements down to its kernel level that made the operating system inherently safer than Windows XP. Even so, this came at a cost; most applications needed changes to work properly in a Windows Vista platform. Although after Service Pack 1, most apps are now compatible, upgrading to Windows Vista may require some creative shimming and “heavy lifting” -not to mention a few headaches and lack of sleep.
Windows 7 is developed on the same basic design as Windows Vista, so many of its applications will retain their compatibility in Windows 7 systems. This alone can make adopting Windows 7 easier than moving to Windows Vista from Windows XP. If your network is still standardized for Windows XP, you should make a transition by getting the latest versions of your current apps.
2 - Hardware requirements and compatibility:
Much like the software compatibility issues, migrating to Windows Vista early on, was a big challenge because of the higher hardware requirements such as more RAM and faster graphic cards.
Windows 7 was developed to perform well on a machine that runs Windows Vista smoothly, while delivering additional reliability and performance improvements, the development team for Windows 7 concentrated on the fundamental things, as well as enhancing compatibility with existing apps and hardware. Generally, you'll find Windows 7 runs faster and has less memory footprint compared to Windows Vista.
3 - Excellent Integration with Windows Server 2008:Windows Server 2008 and Windows 7 share a common code base, and use a single servicing model. It means updates, and security patches are shared easily across both servers and clients, simplifying the process of managing an infrastructure.
Additionally, systems with both Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 unlock capabilities that improve functionality and help create a more secure environment. For example with DirectAccess you can easily manage and update remote mobile computers that are connected to the web, even when they're not connected to the company network.
4 - Data encryption in removable media:
Today's news reports are rife with horror stories about companies and organizations losing control over critical information. In some fields, this is a problem with grave legal and financial implications, while in a few situations this issue is just a simple annoyance. Regardless, a reliable compliance policy dictates that critical information be safeguarded after the lost of a mobile device or storage, further, preventing critical information from being compromised.
Windows 7 uses BitLocker technology, first available in Windows Vista, which now offers full encryption of storage on a PC; along with the new BitLocker To Go that provides data protection on light-weight storage, such as memory cards and USB flash drives. Additionally, BitLocker To Go and BitLocker Drive Encryption can be handled via Group Policy, giving you more control over sensitive information.
5 - Better Control on Applications:
Windows 7 comes with AppLocker, a new feature that allows IT administrators to determine which applications are allowed to run on a desktop or laptop. This feature helps you control access to sensitive apps and manage license compliance, but also more importantly, it helps avoid the opportunity for malware and viruses to sneak into your network. AppLocker provides a strong rule-based structure for determining which apps can run.
6 - Automation Using Scripts:
To help us improve personal productivity and better maintain a consistent environment, Windows 7 uses an excellent graphical scripting editor, the Windows PowerShell 2.0. It offers a powerful scripting capability that supports looping, branching, functions, exception handling, debugging, and internationalization.
7 - Troubleshoot more effectively and faster:
Windows 7 uses powerful tools to identify and solve technical problems, intended to be used by the end users themselves. In more complex situation, a help desk call is usually needed; Windows 7 has several troubleshooting tools that may help speed up the process.
A feature known as Problem Steps Recorder lets end users to record and reproduce their experience after a fatal failure, with all steps recorded as screenshots along with accompanying software configuration data and logs. A compressed file is automatically created and sent to support staff.
8 - Create, manage, and deploy images more efficiently
Windows 7 includes a few tools to streamline the image management, and to get end users up and running immediately. DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool in Windows 7 offers a central place to develop and service images offline. You may perform many functions with just one tool: unmount and mount system images; add and remove, drivers and packages; enable or disable Windows components; configure important settings, and manage an inventory of offline images that contain software updates and drivers. Windows 7 also offers us tools and processes for managing native file-based (WIM) and virtual machine (VHD) image files.
