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Microsoft Windows 7 Migration: 10 Factors to Consider

By Don Reisinger on 2010-12-15


Microsoft's Windows 7 operating system appears to be enjoying unbridled success. In fact, the company reports that it has sold more than 240 million Windows 7 licenses around the world since the operating system launched in 2009. It's likely that Windows 7 will carry the banner that Windows XP has held for so long. Migrating your enterprise to Windows 7, though, remains a major under-taking. You may be opting to stick with Windows XP until Windows 7 has been put through its paces in the marketplace and they can be confident it will offer the functionality (and longevity) that enterprises truly require. At the same time, you're probably fully aware that your Windows XP machines are getting old and slow. Attempting to maintain them, rather than replace them with a new PC and operating system, becomes more painful with each passing month. The time has come to seriously consider opting for Windows 7. Before you take the plunge, here are 10 important factors to consider.

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Migration Costs

According to research firm Gartner, you can expect to pay $1,205—$2,069 per PC to upgrade to Windows 7, depending on your PC environment and how you plan to achieve that goal.

Encryption

Windows 7 comes with far better encryption that Windows XP. It features the popular BitLocker, which encrypts the full disk. The OS also includes BitLocker to Go, so you can encrypt removable drives—an attractive feature for an increasingly mobile workforce.

It’s Not Vista

Windows 7 works far more efficiently than its predecessor, delivers much more functionality, and it’s reliable. Don't worry about getting caught in a Vista-like pitfall with Microsoft’s latest OS.

Windows XP Support End-Date

Microsoft has set the timer on Windows XP, saying that it will end support for the software in 2014. Right now, it would seem prudent to prepare to transition your entire company to Windows 7 by that date.

Consumers Are Embracing It

Windows 7 operates very differently from Windows XP. With 240 million Windows 7 licenses sold, and major vendors selling PCs with Windows 7 pre-installed, you may not face a big learning curve once you deploy in your enterprise.

Legacy Security Programs

Microsoft made several changes to the handling of the Windows 7 kernel to improve security against malicious hackers. This affects the way some legacy security platforms work with the OS. Many third-party security solution vendors have addressed the issue, but you'll be wise to check your security software to be sure it will "play nice" with the new OS.

AppLocker is a Plus

IT staff can control which programs can run on the operating system.

User Account Control

This was one of the most-hated features in Windows Vista, and has staged a comeback in Windows 7. However, Windows 7 offers greater control of this option than its predecessor OS.

Windows XP Mode Support

In Ultimate and Enterprise editions of the software, you can run a full, virtual copy of Windows XP. That means most of your legacy products and applications should work without much trouble on the new OS.

Future-Proofing

Based on the success Windows 7 has enjoyed to date, it seems highly likely that Microsoft will be supporting it for the foreseeable. Because of that, the onus is now on you to future-proof your company in acknowledgment of that reality.

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